Amethyst Gemstone meaning Crystalline quartz in shades of purple lilac or mauve is called amethyst a stone traditionally worn to guard against drunkeness and to instill a sober mind The word amethyst comes from the Greek meaning quotwithout drunkenness quot and amethyst is believed to protect one from poison Amethyst Gemstone meaning Crystalline quartz in shades of purple lilac or mauve is called amethyst a stone traditionally worn to guard against drunkeness and to instill a sober mind The word amethyst comes from the Greek meaning quotwithout drunkenness quot and amethyst is believed to protect one from poison