Amethyst is a popular purple variety of quartz, prized for centuries in jewellery and lore, named from the Greek for "not drunken," as ancient Greeks believed it prevented intoxication and used it for wine vessels. Its color comes from iron impurities and radiation, ranging from pale lilac to deep purple, forming in cavities of volcanic rock (geodes). It's known for symbolizing peace, clarity, and strength, often associated with royalty and spirituality.