amethyst

am·e·thyst

noun \ˈa-mə-thəst, -(ˌ)thist\

Definition of AMETHYST

1

a : a clear purple or bluish-violet variety of crystallized quartz that is often used as a jeweler's stone

b : a deep purple variety of corundum

2

: a moderate purple

— am·e·thys·tine \ˌa-mə-ˈthis-tən\ adjective

Origin of AMETHYST

Middle English amatiste, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin amethystus, from Greek amethystos, literally, remedy against drunkenness, from a- + methyein to be drunk, from methy wine — more at mead

First Known Use: 13th century

amethyst

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

White-tipped amethyst from Guerrero, Mexico—Lee Boltin

Transparent, coarse-grained variety of quartz that is valued as a semiprecious gem for its violet colour. It contains a little more iron oxide (FeO) than any other variety of quartz, and its colour probably arises from this iron content. Heating removes the colour or changes it to the yellow of citrine; most commercial citrine is made in this manner. Notable deposits are found in Brazil, Uruguay, Ontario, and North Carolina. The birthstone for February, amethyst is usually faceted with step cuts or emerald cuts but also has been used since ancient times for carved intaglios.