Amethyst, one of the most popular gems used in jewelry, comes from Brazil, Africa,
Zambia, Nigeria, Australia, Namibia, Russia, Uruguay, India, Loas, and Myanmar.
Derived from the Greek word "amethystos" meaning not "drunken", people beleived
that to drink from a cup made from amethyst would prevent drunkeness.
The best variety is a deep instense purple with flashes of red. Russia produces
some of the best quality as do Zambia and Loas.