Amethyst is the violet variety of quartz. Its intense violet is rare and sought after because most amethysts are very pale. These amethysts of exceptional quality are often from Brazil or Uruguay.

Amethyst keeps its name from its use against drunkenness and excess. Formerly it was sometimes used as a chalice to guard against possible poisoning attempts during banquets, it is the stones of the popes symbolically it represents spirituality and abstinence from vices.