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Amethyst
Amethyst is a hard durable gem-stone and the birthstone for those born in February. Amethyst is the most highly valued of the quartz group of precious stones that also includes Smokey Quartz, Rock Crystal, Rose Quartz, Tigers Eye, and Citrine.
The name "Amethyst" is derived from the Ancient Greek, literally meaning "not drunken" as it was believed to protect the wearer from the effects of alcohol and to instil a sober and serious mind!
As purple was the colour associated with Imperial Rule in Ancient Rome, the stone was highly regarded in ancient times, and later became the favourite of high officials of the early Christian church, and is still found in modern day Bishop's rings.
Although found in the Urals (Russia), Canada, Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, the USA, Germany, Australia, and Africa, the largest and most important deposits for high quality amethyst is Brazil, where its discovery prompted its widespread popularity in 19th century jewellery. Cellini uses very fine amethyst, principally from the Brazilian deposits.