Crystalline quartz in colors ranging from pale lilac to deep reddish purple and ranging from transparent to translucent is known as amethyst. Amethyst is related to citrine, which is the yellow form of quartz, and also to rock crystal which is the colourless variety. Amethyst is very expensive.

The name `amethyst` comes from the Greek and this means not drunken. This was maybe due to a belief that amethyst would ward off the effects of alcohol, but most likely the Greeks were referring to the almost wine-like color of some stones that they may have encountered. Its color is unparalleled, and even other, more expensive purple gemstones are often compared to its color and beauty. Although it must always be purple to be amethyst, it can and does have a wide range of purple shades as well. Amethyst can occur as long prismatic crystals that have a six sided pyramid at either end or can form as druzes that are crystalline crusts that only show the pointed terminations. As a mineral specimen, amethyst is popular for its color and nice crystal shapes that produce a handsome, purple, sparkling cluster. But it can also be seen that Amethyst is not the same everywhere. Different localities can produce a unique amethyst to that particular region or even to that particular mine. Experts can often identify the source from where a particular amethyst came. The key to this is the specimen`s color, shape of crystal, inclusions, associations and character of formation.

Colour Of Amethyst
Amethyst is colourless in its purest form that is found in abundance. The finest quality Amethyst is medium to medium dark in tone, vivid in intensity, and purple, reddish purple to bluish purple in hue. Heating removes the color from amethyst or changes it to the yellow of citrine. Most commercial citrine is made in this manner.

Varieties Of Amethyst
Oriental amethyst, or purple sapphire, is not quartz but a variety of corundum, a much harder and rarer stone. Amethyst often becomes paler if kept out in the sun. Amethyst should be cleaned in ultrasonic jewelry cleaner or with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush. These should always be kept away from strong chemicals and sudden temperature changes. Amethyst is the birthstone of Aquarius i.e. Water Bearer. The time ranges from Jan 20 - Feb 18. Amethyst is also an anniversary gemstone for the 4th and 6th year of marriage.

Healing Ability of Amethyst
Amethyst magnifies psychic abilities and right-brain activity. Some of the other benefits of Amethyst include strengthening immunity, while energizing and purifying the blood. Amethyst relieves headaches and improves blood sugar imbalance. Amethyst is a rare form of quartz, which is popular around the world.

Mystical Power Of Amethyst
The Greek work `amethystos` basically can be translated as `not drunken`. The gemstone still symbolizes sobriety. Amethyst was thought to encourage celibacy. Because of that, amethyst was very important in the ornamentation of churches in the Middle Ages. Amethyst is a wonderful affordable purple gemstone. Purple has long been the color of royalty and nobility. It is a deep, passionate color that evokes emotions. The pale colors are sometimes called `Rose de France` and can be seen set in Victorian jewelry. The deep colors are the most valuable, particularly a rich purple with rose flashes. Amethyst is wonderful in rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, and bracelets.