History of Amethyst Gemstone Amethyst is a sparkling violet hued crystal that has been appreciated by people for centuries. The word amethyst originated from the Greek word “ amethystos,” which represents “not drunken”. It is believed that according to Greek mythology, amethyst was formed when the god of wine, Dionysus, became angry with swore and mortals to unleash his tiger on the first person who crosses his path. A young lady whose name was Amethyst was on her way to pay tribute to the goddess Diana when she unexpectedly met with Dionysus’s tigers. As she cried out in front of Diana for help, she was became a pillar of quartz.