**Amethyst**
The term #0excludeGlossary has its roots in the Greek word #1excludeGlossary which translates to #2excludeGlossary a nod to the ancient belief that this gemstone could ward off drunkenness. Over the centuries, the meaning of Amethyst has expanded beyond its crystalline origins to include a popular cannabis strain. Known for its striking purple appearance and soothing effects, the Amethyst strain offers a unique blend of relaxation and mental acuity, making it a sought-after choice for cannabis enthusiasts. In today’s rapidly changing cannabis landscape, Amethyst stands out as a premium strain that embodies both elegance and efficacy. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance or its modern-day applications, Amethyst continues to captivate and inspire. [Source: Harvard Health, Cannabis Now]
Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz. The name comes from the Koine Greek αμέθυστος amethystos from α- a-, "not" and μεθύσκω (Ancient Greek) methysko / μεθώ metho (Modern Greek), "intoxicate", a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. Ancient Greeks wore amethyst and carved drinking vessels from it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication.
| Amethyst | |
|---|---|
 Amethyst cluster from Artigas, Uruguay | |
| General | |
| Category | Tectosilicate minerals, quartz variety |
| Formula | Silica (silicon dioxide, SiO2) |
| Crystal system | Trigonal |
| Crystal class | Trapezohedral (32) |
| Space group | P3221 (no. 154) |
| Identification | |
| Color | Purple, violet, dark purple |
| Crystal habit | 6 sided prism ending in 6 sided pyramid (typical) |
| Twinning | Dauphine law, Brazil law, and Japan law |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Mohs scale hardness | 7 (lower in impure varieties) |
| Luster | Vitreous/glassy |
| Streak | White |
| Diaphaneity | Transparent to translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 constant; variable in impure varieties |
| Optical properties | Uniaxial (+) |
| Refractive index | nω = 1.543–1.553 nε = 1.552–1.554 |
| Birefringence | +0.009 (B-G interval) |
| Pleochroism | Weak to moderate purple/reddish purple |
| Melting point | 1650±75 °C |
| Solubility | Insoluble in common solvents |
| Other characteristics | Piezoelectric |
Amethyst, a semiprecious stone, is often used in jewelry.
It occurs mostly in association with calcite, quartz, smoky quartz, hematite, pyrite, fluorite, goethite, agate and chalcedony.
English
Etymology
From Middle English ametist, from Old French ametiste (French améthyste), from Ancient Greek ἀμέθυστος (améthustos, “not drunk”), from ἀ- (a-, “not”) + μεθύω (methúō, “I am drunk”), from μέθυ (méthu, “wine”).
The name was based on the ancient belief that amethyst gemstones could prevent intoxication. People in ancient Greece and Rome would wear amethyst or drink from cups made of amethyst to ward
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