Amethyst

Amethyst, the February birthstone is the most loved member from the Quartz family. This gem is much admired for its pleasing violet hue. The name comes from ancient Greek ‘amethystos’ which means ‘not drunken’, as these stones were believed to protect its wearer from drunkenness.
Given its royal violet color, this gem has adorned many a powerful personnel all through history. The ancient Romans wore Amethyst as a talisman. Moses described its beauty by referring to it as ‘Spirit of God’. Russian Empress, Catherine the Great, was known to be passionate about these astounding gems. This beautiful gem is also associated with Buddha and so these stone became the sacred stones for making rosaries.
Unlike many other precious stones, deposits of amethyst are relatively abundant in nature. Amethysts that come from Brazil and Uruguay are highly prized for their fine quality. Very dark, but small crystals of amethyst are mined in Australia. Some other sites where this gemstone is mined are Madagascar, Africa, United States, Soviet Union and India.