Amethyst
From Giftypedia
Amethyst is February's birthstone.
[edit] Colors
Most amethyst gemstones on the market today are heat-treated to produce a deeper color. Heat treating is permanent and these stones will not fade over time. Unless otherwise stated, assume that any amethyst you purchase today has been heat treated to increase the depth of color.
[edit] What's in a Name
Amethyst gets is name from the Ancient Greek word 'amethustos' meaning not to intoxicate. Ancient Greeks thought if you drank from a cup containing amethyst gemstone would ward off intoxication.
[edit] Moh's Scale
Moh's scale of hardness is 7.
[edit] Legends and Powers
Greek legend tells of Dionysus, the god of intoxication, having been insulted by a mortal and swore revenge on the next mortal who crossed his path. He then creating fierce tigers to carry out his revenge. The mortal turned out to be a beautiful young woman, Amethystos, who was on her way to pay tribute to Artemis. Her life is spared by Artemis, who transforms the maiden into a statue of pure crystalline quartz to protect her from the tigers brutal claws. Dionysus wept tears of wine in remorse for his action at the sight of the beautiful statue. The god's tears stained the quartz purple.
The amethyst is thought to bring good fortune in war and in the hunt, drive out evil spirits and inspire the intellect. Amethyst has been used for hearing disorders, insomnia, headaches and other pain. Some sources suggest it is used to stabilize mental disorders and to make the wearer gentle and amiable.
