Meanings of Gemstones

Amethyst
The word "amethyst" is of Greek origin and is translated as- "amethystus" meaning not drunken, or intoxicated ("-methystos" from "methyein" or intoxicated, "methy" = wine). As a symbol of sincerity and stability, the unique purple shades of amethyst have been declared the "Rose de France" and has been set, even today, in Victorian jewelry.

Aquamarine
Aquamarine derives its' name from "sea water." According to some legends, aquamarine is the treasure of mermaids, with the power to keep sailors safe. A gift of Aquamarine symbolizes both safety and security, especially within long standing relationships.

Diamond
Comes from the Greek word, "adamus" which means unconquerable, utterly unyielding in attitude or opinion in spite of all appeals, urgings etc. It was believed that diamonds possessed God given magical qualities and powers far beyond the understanding of common man. Thus, warriors stayed clear of Kings and those who were fortunate enough to have the magical diamonds in their breastplates.

Emerald
The name emerald is a derivative of an ancient Persian word, coming to us through the corruption of the Latin `Smaragdus'. The history of the emerald is as fascinating as it is voluminous. The ancients prized it as the symbol of love, rebirth and eternal youth. Emerald were being used as a measure against ills, women wearing the stone were believed to be immune from epilepsy.

Garnet
Garnet derived its name from the French word ''grenat" meaning Pomegranate and "granatus" meaning grain. So called from its resemblance in color and shape to the grains or seeds of the pomegranate. It's meaning has given symbolism to garnet as a gift of love's attraction, a gift of quick return or as a gift of  estranged love. This myth gave partial rise to the belief that garnet is a stone for loved ones who travel and a crystal that can heal the broken bonds between lovers.

Opal
Greek word "op llios" meaning gem and a source akin to Sanskrit "upala" precious stone. Thr greeks called the opal “the queen of gems” because it embodied the colors of all the other gems. They revered opal as a symbol of hope and purity.

Pearl
The name Pearl is derived from thefrom Latin perla which denotes the glowing white orbs associated with the moon. Pearls symbolize Purity, Spiritual Transformation, Charity, Honesty, Wisdom

Peridot
The name Peridot comes from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. Ancient Egyptians called them the "gem of the sun," because of their dazzling brilliance when seen in the desert sun.

Ruby
The word Ruby comes from the Latin "ruber," meaning red..It has been said that the Ruby's red glow comes from an internal flame that cannot be extinguished, making a gift of this stone symbolic of everlasting love.

Sapphire
Sapphire was named after the Greek word "sapphirus", meaning blue. The striking deep blue of a quality sapphire is reminiscent of a cloudless night sky. Sapphires were thought to be protective against envy, and even against poisoning.

Topaz
The name topaz was derived from the Island of Topazos in the Red Sea, which probably refers to Zeberged, ancient source for peridot. But it is more likely that the name derives from the Sanskrit word "tapas" meaning fire. Topaz was said to drive away sadness and strengthen the intellect.

Turquoise
Turquoise was so named because it was initially brought to Europe by way of Turkey, this stone is one of the first gems to be used in jewelry.   Turquoise was considered by ancients to be a sacred stone, protective against all manners of evil and ill health.  This beautiful gemstone is mined in Iran and the southwestern United States.  A gift of Turquoise represents friendship and luck. The Persian word for turquoise is "ferozah" or "firozah", which means victorious.

Crystals, minerals and metals have played various roles in the myths and legends of human cultures throughout history. They are fascinating examples of the attempts of the men and women of ancient times to explain their world without the benefit of science and with each culture's biases, superstitions and interests impressed upon them and therefore provide us with an especially vivid picture of the psychology of ancient man. What gemstone could make heroes stronger? Legends of Jewels, Quartz Mythology, Myths about crystals and myths about jewelry; Some of those ancient myths and legends have come down intact through the centuries. Others have evolved and mutated as result of the input of other culture as they came into contact with one another. Read more on www.valuablestones.com!