Amethyst – protection from sorcery and intoxication

In the history of mankind, diamonds and emeralds did not always occupy the first place. In ancient Greece, for example, such stones as lapis lazuli, turquoise, jasper, carnelian and amethyst were especially appreciated.
Amethyst (SiO2) is a kind of quartz, which has a purple color, sometimes with a pink or reddish tinge. It is considered the most valuable gemstone in the quartz group. According to ancient legends, the amethyst has supernatural power. It brings good luck, protects against diseases and even sorcery, and also prevents intoxication. It is a gemstone of travelers, protecting from thieves and other road troubles. Amethyst is used to strengthen memory, relieve headaches and, especially, to give up bad habits.

In the ancient Greek myths, the god of wine and fun Dionysus fell in love with beautiful nymph Ametis. She rejected his love and Dionysus began to pursue the beautiful nymph. When he caught her, Ametis began to call for help. The goddess Artemis took pity on the girl and turned her into a beautiful purple crystal. The ancient Romans have their own legend about the birth of a beautiful stone, but the main characters are the same: Bacchus is the god of wine and fun, Ametis and the goddess Diana.
In the 16th century, an amethyst was valued even more than a ruby in Russia. The crown of Irina Godunova, Russian queen, was decorated with huge amethysts and sapphires.
Amethyst symbolizes deep love, happiness, chastity, sincerity. This gemstone placed under the pillow helps to prevent nightmares and to cure insomnia.
Today, amethyst is one of the most favorite gemstones. Jewelers make magnificent brooches, earrings, necklaces, pendants, rings and bracelets with this gemstone.
If you heat amethyst to 200° C it will lose its color. However, the color restores when it becomes cool.

18th century portuguese devant de corsage (from a set), National Museum of Ancient Art

There are many amethyst deposits on the territory of Russia: in the Urals, in Yakutia, the Kola Peninsula, in Eastern Siberia. Amethyst is also produced in Brazil, Uruguay, India, the USA, Madagascar, Australia, etc.
Amethyst is the official gemstone of Ontario.
Prasiolite, also known as green amethyst, is a kind of quartz. The positive energy of prasiolite improves mood, gives vitality, strengthens intuition and sensuality, helps to cope with fears. This gemstone is recommended for the treatment of skin and eye disorders, protects the oral cavity from caries, problems with gums, toothache; improves the functioning of the lungs and cardiovascular system. Green amethyst also contributes to the preservation of health and longevity.