AMETHYST
Amethyst has been a highly prized stone since earliest times. The stone of peace of mind, piety and humility, it was also thought to sharpen the intellect and ward off tiredness. The Amethyst was associated with Bacchus, the God of Wine, maybe because of its colour, but it was also used as a symbol of sobriety. It was often worn as an amulet and was believed to protect the wearer in battle and to be an antidote to poison.
Amethyst was much favoured by early Christians and is still used as the traditional stone of a bishop’s ring. It is also used as the emblem of St. Matthew.
Fine examples of amethyst stones can be seen in the Sceptre and Orb in the Crown Jewels and Regalia of the Royal Family of Great Britain.
Amethyst is the birthstone for February
|