|
Amethyst,
according to legend, originated when Bacchus, the god of wine, grew angry
at mortals. He vowed the next mortal that crossed his path would be
eaten by tigers.
At that time, a beautiful young maiden named Amethyst was on her way to
worship the goddess Diana. Diana, knowing of Bacchus' vow, turned
Amethyst into a pillar of colorless quarts to protect her from the tigers.
Bacchus, witnessing the miracle, repented and poured wine over Amethyst,
staining her purple.
This connection with Bacchus led to the belief that drinking wine from an
amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness.
Also considered an aid to the brave, Amethyst was believed to protect
soldiers in battle, control evil thoughts, help hunters capture wild
beasts and make it's owner shrewd in business matters.
The birthstone of February is designated for the first wedding
anniversary. |
