Amethyst (AM-eh-thihst) is a favorite stone for many gemstone fans. This type of quartz can come in shades of deep purple, pale lavender, and more, depending on traces of manganese and/or iron. According to Greek myth, Amethystos, a nymph, evaded the advances of Dionysus, the god of wine. Amethystos asked for help, and Artemis the virgin goddess changed her to a clear or white stone. Dionysus ended up pouring his wine over the stone, staining it purple.
