Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz. The name comes from the Koine Greek ἀμέθυστος "amethystos" from ἀ- "a-", "not" and μεθύσκω "methysko" / μεθύω "methyo", "intoxicate", a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. The ancient Greeks wore amethyst and carved drinking vessels from it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication. Amethyst is a semiprecious stone often used in jewelry and is the traditional birthstone for February. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz (SiO) and owes its violet color to irradiation, iron impurities (in some cases in conjunction with transition
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