Historically one of the most valuable and luxurious gems, Amethyst is much more affordable today at no sacrifice to its beauty. Because of its purplish color, the gem has always symbolized royalty and luxury. Interestingly, ancient Greeks connected its color to wine and believed that wearing it prevented drunkenness. Amethyst is a birthstone for February and the gem for the 6th anniversary.
Spinel comes in red, pink, purple and blue. Over the past few centuries, many emperors and monarchs confused red spinel for ruby. For example, the famous 14th century Black Prince’s Ruby placed on the British Imperial Crown is actually spinel, not ruby as the name suggests. Nevertheless, because of its beauty and stark similarities to ruby and sapphire, the gem has traditionally been treasured. Like diamonds, the gem is singly refractive.
