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There is a rich body of myth, legend and folklore surrounding the gemstones that are found in gold jewelry. Let's take a look at the qualities that are associated with the most popular gemstones.

Amethyst

The word *amethyst* is derived from the Greek word *not to intoxicate* and this led to the belief that drinking wine from an amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness. The gem was also thought to protect soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against disease, control evil thoughts, and quicken one's intelligence. On top of that, it was used as a surface cure for headaches and toothaches, and said to increase spirituality.

Aquamarine

The name of this gem is derived from the Latin word meaning *sea water* and it was believed to protect ocean voyagers and guard against sea monsters. The ancients also believed that aquamarine soaked in water would treat eye troubles, respiratory diseases and hiccups. Other popular uses included treatment of depression and grief and the awakening of love in long marriages. The gem also signifies the making of new friends.

Ametrine

The Ametrine is a natural blend of Amethyst and Citrine. It is a stunning combination that flatters all skin tones and complements wardrobes of all seasons. Its purple color represents spirituality, passion, mysticism and faith. And its yellow signifies mental and spiritual enlightenment, vitality, and hope. The blended stone presents the wearer with a gem symbolic of spirituality, steadfast loyalty, and a zest for life.

Chalcedon

The gem is named for an ancient seaport. In the Third or Fourth century A.D. Greek seafarers wore chalcedony to avoid drowning. It was once believed that someone seeing nocturnal phantoms took in the disease though their eyes, but the *alkaline* content of chalcedony could remove it.

Chrysoprase

This gem was once used for spiritual protection and it is said to be a *victory stone.* In the 1800s it was believed to help thieves escape execution by becoming invisible if held in their mouths. The natural green color of this gemstone which comes from Queensland, Australiahas also earned it the name *Australian Jade.*

Carnelian

In the eighth century, the Muslim leader Ja*afar ibn Muhammad proclaimed that wearing Carnelian would guarantee the granting of all desires. The stone soon became a popular talisman among the Muslims. In the 1700s it was known to bring luck, protection, and comfort and in the 1800s and said to help those who needed courage to speak. The gem was also used to promote clear thinking and to balance creativity and mental processing.

Citrine

The name of the gem was derived from the French word citron, meaning "lemon." The yellow color of this gem is associated with lightheartedness and cheerfulness. It is also believed to help one connect with the spirit and is often given as a symbol of hope, youth, health, and fidelity.

These are but some of the myths associated with our most popular gems. In my next article I will look at the folklore connected with other popular gemstones.