Amethyst of synthetic quartz is used. Treated amethyst is produced by gamma ray, X-ray or electron beam irradiation of clear quartz (rock crystal) which has been first doped with ferric impurities. On exposure to heat, the irradiation effects can be partially cancelled and amethyst generally becomes yellow or even green, and much of the citrine, cairngorm, or yellow quartz of jewelry is said to be merely "burnt amethyst". The Greek word "amethystos" may be translated as "not drunken", from Greek "a-", "not" + "methustos", "intoxicated". Amethyst was considered to be a strong antidote against drunkenness, which is why wine goblets were
Amethyst Stakes Amethyst Stakes The Amethyst Stakes is a Group 3 flat horse race in Ireland open to thoroughbreds aged three years or older. It is run over a distance of 1 mile (1,609 metres) at Leopardstown in May. The event was formerly staged at Phoenix Park. For a period it held Listed status. Known previously by sponsored titles, it was renamed the Amethyst Stakes in 1989. It was transferred to Leopardstown in 1991. The Amethyst Stakes was promoted to Group 3 level in 2007. Most successful horse since 1986 (3 wins): Leading jockey since 1986 (6 wins): Leading trainer since 1986