Amethyst is Macrocrystalline quartz and is one of the best selling gemstones in the world. Like Agate, Amethyst is found in geodes. In ancient times, the Greeks used to think that amethyst would protect those who wore it from becoming drunk. The name Amethyst is derived from the Greek amethystos which when translated is “not drunken”. Amethyst has also been used to encourage celibacy, erase evil thoughts and keep one grounded. Amethyst beads can vary in color from shades of red-violet to purple, from a milky color to green. Heating Amethyst can turn it yellow, brown, and no color at all. In fact, most commercial Citrine are heat treated Amethyst. Amethysts are found in Brazil, Argentina, Namibia, Canada and the U.S., and are commonly listed as the birthstone for those born in February.