For centuries, amethyst was ranked alongside diamond, ruby and emerald. Kings and bishops wore it. And today, you can too.
So how did one of history's most precious gems become one of the easiest to fall in love with? The answer involves a Greek legend, a Brazilian discovery and a crystal that can change colour.
Amethyst is also one of the most asked-about purple gems. Does it fade in the sun? Why does it look dull after a while? The answers are simpler than you might expect. Amethyst gets its colour from iron combined with natural radiation in the crystal, and that colour is not permanent under every condition. Prolonged strong sunlight, especially on a sunny windowsill, and sustained heat can lighten the purple and push some stones toward a yellowish or brownish tone.
That is also why citrine is so closely linked to amethyst, because heat is how many golden citrines are made. Normal wear will not change a stone you own, but months on a bright sill or in a hot car on summer days can, so keep it out of direct sun when it is not being worn.
Read to the very end for the secret link between amethyst and citrine.
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The name that means "not drunk"
The word amethyst comes from the ancient Greek amethystos, often translated as "not intoxicated".
🍷 The Greeks and Romans reportedly believed amethyst could protect its owner from the effects of too much wine, and drinking cups were said to be carved from it. With that rich wine-purple colour, you can see exactly where the legend came from.
Edwardian designers often paired amethyst with seed pearls, a combination that still looks delicate against yellow gold. If you are buying an older piece, check the setting and the back of the mount as well as the stone, since old pieces are often repaired or re-set.
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From royal treasure to everyday luxury
Amethyst has long been the colour of royalty and bishops, and historically it was counted among the most precious gems of all.
💎 Then large deposits were found in Brazil, which made fine amethyst far more plentiful. The best news? The beauty stayed exactly the same. That's why you can now wear a gem once fit for a king without needing a king's budget.
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What amethyst is often associated with
In crystal traditions and folklore, amethyst is often associated with:
Here are two more ways to wear that regal purple every single day.
Found the amethyst ring of your dreams but need a different size? Send us a resize enquiry here.
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Tough, wearable and easy to love
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, which sits at 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. That makes it a brilliant choice for rings, pendants and earrings you'll want to wear on repeat.
✨ Warm soapy water and a soft brush brings back that deep purple sparkle
🧽 Rinse, pat dry with a soft cloth and you're good to go
👛 Keep it in its own pouch or box between wears to keep it looking brand new
💍 Pop into our Kirkcaldy boutique for a professional clean and check any time
If the colour ever looks dull, the cause is more often a film of oils, lotions and everyday grime than any permanent change. A warm, soapy wash usually lifts it, and the purple comes back quickly.
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Amethyst FAQs
What month is amethyst the birthstone for?
February, which makes it a stunning gift for anyone with a February birthday.
Is amethyst good for everyday wear?
Yes. As a quartz at 7 on the Mohs scale, it's a durable, wearable gem that's made for everyday style.
Is amethyst a type of quartz?
Yes. Amethyst is purple quartz, coloured by tiny traces of iron and natural radiation within the crystal.
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What our customers say
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Teresa Perry
"Really unusual pieces and beautifully made. Purchased a ring containing my birthstone and my husband's birthstone. A perfect piece of jewellery to celebrate our golden wedding."
The secret link between amethyst and citrine
Amethyst and citrine are both quartz. Heat amethyst enough and it can turn yellow to orange, which is one way some citrine on the market is made.
🔥 So that golden gem you admired may have started life as purple. Same crystal, two completely different personalities.
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Fit for royalty, made for you
Amethyst has gone from royal treasure to everyday favourite without losing an ounce of its drama. Find your perfect piece online, or come and see that purple glow in person at our Kirkcaldy boutique.
If you love a gem with a story, read how one Scottish novel shook up the opal world.
Visit or contact Eloise Jewellery
📍 Eloise Jewellery, 156 High Street, Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland, KY1 1NQ📞 01592 646340 · ✉️ eloisejewellery@hotmail.co.uk
🕒 Monday–Saturday: 9:30am–5:30pm
Please note: the spiritual properties described in this article come from crystal traditions and folklore. They are not scientifically proven and are not a substitute for medical advice.