February Birthstone: Amethyst

One of the birthstones mentioned for the month of February, is the amethyst. In the classical world, it was one of the most popular gems, as it prevented hangovers. The name is Greek and literally means “not drunk”. In an ancient tale, wine god Dionysos chase a nymph, called Amethyste. In desperation, she asked Artemis, virgin goddess of the hunt, for help. Artemis turned her into a pure, white stone. Did it anger Dionysos, that she was out of reach. Or did he feel sorry at the sight of her, frozen in cold rock? Fact is that he poured his finest wine over it, colouring it purple and making it one of the most coveted gems, with very broad claims of health. The ancients would use it for drinking vessels, to avoid intoxication. Soldiers would carry it as protection. And in a bishop’s ring, it points to reasonableness. Others would wear it because it dissolves negativity, enhances memory, relieves insomnia, reduces pain, eases headaches, and treats injuries and all kinds of disorders. Or because it’s pretty. And shiny.