Genuine Amethyst

Derived from the ancient Greek word amethystos, meaning not inebriated, amethyst was believed to protect its wearer from intoxication. It was also thought to entice the highest, purest aspirations of humankind. February's birthstone, amethyst also is the suggested gift for the 6th wedding anniversary. The amethyst belongs to the quartz family, the world's largest mineral group. It comes in a variety of shades of varying intensity from pale lilac to reddish or bluish violet to deep purple with red highlights, and boasts good durability at 7 on the Mohs scale.

The most important gem deposits are in Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia and Argentina. It is also found in Africa, Mexico, Australia, India, Russia, and the United States.

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