The Amethyst ranges in color from deep purple to pale lavender depending on the presence of manganese and iron.
According to the ancient Greeks, it's origin was the nymph named Amethystos who refused the attentions of Dionysus, the god of wine and intoxication. As he pursued her, she prayed for protection to preserve her chastity. The virgin goddess Artemis answered her call for help, transforming the nymph into a white or clear stone. The story ends with Dionysus pouring his wine over the stone--either accidentally or deliberately--dyeing the crystal purple.
While the story is fun, the actual properties of the amethyst are a bit more compelling. Amethyst is often used during meditation to provide an overall sense of spiritual balance. Some naturopaths will use amethyst to help treat insomnia and sugar imbalances, and to relieve headaches.
This majestic gemstone gets its color from the presence of manganese and/or iron. Amethyst can also appear reddish-purple or yellow-purple depending on the combination of minerals present in the clear quartz. Were amethyst less abundant, it would be even more highly-prized--and expensive!
Amethyst, though inexpensive, is still considered a prosperous stone--so wear it boldly! Wire-wrapped jewelry is very distinctive, and the beads of all shapes and sizes can be beautifully paired with other gemstones.