Why is it that you either love or hate amethyst? Is it what the color purple connotes? Do we associate purple with Donny Osmond's socks, wizard robes and disco sequined tube tops? A color choice for over the top theatrics- Prince and the God Father of Soul both had a penchant for purple. Personally I love amethyst, and purple in general.

Behold one of the most flattering colors in the spectrum. From the lilacs we will see this Spring and Summer to the rich aubergines coming in Fall, purple is the sophisticated color of choice. Amethyst comes in varying shades, so it will fit nicely with the seasons and your taste.

At one end of the spectrum it can be a pale, slightly pinkish violet or be turned way up to a deep grape. The most desirable grade of amethyst is "Deep Siberian." Recently discovered in Russia, it is a rare mix of lush purple and blue with a touch of red flash.

Ancient Greeks and Romans made intaglio's from slices of amethyst. Catherine the Great sent thousands of miners into the Ural Mountains in search of this gem. Roman Catholic priests had large cabochons set into papal rings. 7th century Anglo Saxon graves contained many necklaces of amethyst beads. Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that it "dissipates evil thoughts and quickens intelligence."

Jackie O loved to wear a graduating necklace of faceted amethyst teardrops that sold at Sotheby's for $55,000. I can safely say all the above had a heightened sense of culture and taste. Worn with black or gray this unique quartz looks very sophisticated and modern.

The stone most closely associated with the heavens and spiritual thought, amethyst is a great protector from negativity.

As legend has it, Dionysus- the God of wine and merriment, was in hot pursuit of a fair maiden called Amethystos. Upon refusing him she prayed to the Gods to remain chaste. Artemis granted the prayer and to protect her turned her into a white stone. The humbled Dionysus poured wine over the statue as an offering and apology, turning it purple.

Since this tale it has remained a strong talisman against intoxication. The greek word "a" means not, and "methustos" - to intoxicate. Wine goblets were carved from amethyst and small crushed crystals of the rock were added to wine to keep from overindulging. [I would not try this at home]

In this month of Mardi Gras celebrations maybe opt for an amethyst strand of beads instead of the plastic gold and green, then drink till your hearts content, just have some aleve on hand in case the ancient Greeks had their heads in the clouds.

Resources:

• Amethyst Gem from Love to Know
• Amethyst Shades from Rajasthan Art
• Religious ring from Mondera.com
• Sotheby's catalog showing Jackie O's necklace from Ebay

Explore the birthstones for each month:

Birthstone for January: Garnet

Birthstone for February: Amethyst

Birthstone for March: Aquamarine

Birthstone for April: Diamonds

Birthstone for May: Emerald

Birthstone for June: Pearl

Birthstone for July: Ruby

Birthstone for August: Peridot

Birthstone for September: Sapphire

Birthstone for October: Opal

Birthstone for November: Topaz

Birthstone for December: Blue Topaz