Amethyst is one of the world’s most celebrated gemstones — a purple variety of quartz prized for its colour, clarity, and history. Its name comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated,” a nod to ancient beliefs that the stone could protect against excess and clouded judgment.
Legend tells of Bacchus, the god of wine, who, in anger, poured wine over a maiden encased in quartz. The clear crystal turned violet, creating the first amethyst — a symbol of clarity, protection, and intuition that has endured for centuries.
Its colour comes from trace iron and natural irradiation, giving each stone unique depth. Brazil and Uruguay are the largest sources, though Canada’s Thunder Bay is also known for notable deposits. Some South American formations are enormous, rivaling the height of small buildings, a reminder of nature’s scale and power.
Amethyst is also linked to heightened awareness and intuition. It is said to support mental clarity, emotional balance, and a connection to higher levels of insight — qualities that make it particularly meaningful for February birthdays.
Varieties of Amethyst
Amethyst comes in many forms, each with distinct colour, origin, and energy:
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Siberian Amethyst: Deep, royal purple with red and blue flashes. Originally from Russia, now mined in Brazil and Zambia. Known for intuition, emotional healing, and protection.
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Brandberg Amethyst: From Namibia’s Brandberg Mountains; light lavender to deep purple, often mixed with clear or smoky quartz. Supports transformation, connection with ancestors, and energy clearing.
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Auralite-23: Canadian stone containing 23 minerals. Purple shades with streaks of red, blue, and green. Called the “ultimate master healer” for its versatile spiritual and emotional benefits.
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Brazilian Amethyst: Light lavender to deep violet; sourced from Brazil. Supports clarity, spiritual growth, and emotional balance.
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Cape Amethyst: Mix of amethyst and milky quartz from South Africa. Enhances intuition, meditation, and self-discipline.
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Chevron Amethyst: V-shaped purple and white banding; found in Brazil, India, and Russia. Promotes inner peace, confidence, and spiritual growth.
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Moss Amethyst: Light purple with mineral inclusions; encourages emotional resilience, meditation, and stress relief.
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Pink Amethyst: Soft pink quartz from Patagonia and Uruguay; promotes love, compassion, and mindfulness.
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Ametrine: Bicolor stone combining purple and yellow/orange quartz, primarily from Bolivia; balances emotions, enhances creativity, and supports intuition.
From raw crystals to polished rings, pendants, and earrings, amethyst is as versatile as it is enduring. Its many varieties, rich hues, and layered history make it a thoughtful gift and a lasting treasure, whether admired in its natural form or worn as jewellery.
Whether drawn to its colour, its myth, or the way it inspires reflection and clarity, amethyst continues to captivate — a gemstone that connects beauty, meaning, and history in every form.



