Amethyst derives its name from the Greek word meaning not to intoxicate . Its reputed power to prevent inebriation stems from an ancient Greek myth. Amethyst has given rise to many legends. It was thought to safeguard soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against diseases, control evil thoughts, quicken the intelligence, and make its owner shrewd in business Catherine the Great loved amethyst and sent thousands of workers to mines in the Ural Mountains to search for the stone. Many fine samples of her collection remain in the Soviet Treasury.
Several amethysts adorn the coronation regalia of England.
The Royal Scepter and the coronet of the Prince of Wales are studded with this stone. Today, amethyst rings are often worn by Roman Catholic bishops, and their ceremonial wine is drunk from goblets made of amethyst. Most of our amethyst is mined from the former Soviet Union. This material is famous for its premier deep color and beautiful red flashes. This is one of our favorite stones and is available in many shapes and in a variety of settings.