Amethyst Rings

Amethyst Rings: History and Symbolism

The most valuable member of the quartz family, the amethyst has been around for what seems like ages. Used as a decorative, etched piece of jewelry or an intaglio, the Egyptians were extremely fond of the amethyst. However, it is from ancient Greece that the amethyst takes its somewhat unique name. Roughly translated, amethyst is represented by the words “not intoxicated”.

You can bet there’s a story to be told here – and quite a story it is too! In Greek mythology, Dionysus (Bacchus to the Romans) was the god of vegetation, fruitfulness, and more especially, wine and ecstasy. It seems that one day, he became insulted by some poor mortal, who rebuffed his authority. Dionysus was enraged and swore vengeance on all humans who would not participate in his revels.

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A young, innocent virgin named Amethyst was on her way to pay homage to Diana, goddess of nature, animals and the hunt, as well as protector of the lower classes. She was unaware of the edict of Dionysus. Dionysus, on his part, was furious and summoned two tigers to attack and kill the girl. He then sat back with a goblet of wine, ready to enjoy the show. A terrified Amethyst called to Diana for help. Diana, in turn, responded just in the nick of time. Her solution was to transform Amethyst into a shining, white stone – quartz – which protected her from a horrible death.

Regaining some bit of sobriety, Dionysus was filled with remorse for what he’d caused to happen and pity for the girl. He began to sob. As he did so, his tears fell into his cup of wine. Finally, disconsolate, Dionysus collapsed - his goblet tumbling from his hand. The wine and god-tear mixture splashed on the white stone, which absorbed the liquid, and stained it deep purple. This became the gemstone that we know today as amethyst.

According to Exodus, the amethyst was the third stone in the third row of the breastplate of Aaron, high priest of Israel and the older brother and spokesman for Moses. Again, according to the Old Testament, the amethyst represented the tribe of Dan, one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel – Dan being the 10th son of Jacob.

Next: Amethyst Properties

Also Read about The Amethyst in the Bible

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