They may be colourless, black, and many shades of red and green. February Birthstone - Amethyst Amethyst, the name derived from the Greek amethystos , not intoxicated, expresses the ancient folk belief that the stone protects its owner against drunkenness. In ancient writings, the Latin name amethystus was used for amethyst, purple corundum, and purple garnet. Amethyst was a favourite gemstone of high officials of the Christian church. Amethysts are found in Brazil, Madagascar, Canada, Russia and the United States.
Dark blue is the most desired colour.
The most important deposits are in Brazil. Other deposits of importance are in Australia, Burma, Sri Lanka and the United States. In the symbolism of gemstones, the diamond represents steadfast love. Diamond is a mineral composed of pure carbon. It is the hardest naturally occurring substance known and the most popular gemstone.