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Amethyst

♀ Girl

Pronounced AM-eh-thist /ˈæm.ɪ.θɪst/Low

Meaning: Not drunk; the purple gemstone believed to prevent intoxicationLow

In 30 seconds: Amethyst is a striking gem name meaning not drunk in Greek, from the ancient belief that the purple stone prevented intoxication. As a girl's name it evokes the beautiful purple crystal and the power of clarity and sobriety.
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Origin LowGreek
MeaningNot drunk; the purple gemstone believed to prevent intoxication
U.S. rank (2024)#1320 ↘ Falling
2024 U.S. births173 girls (0.01% of U.S. girls)
Peak year2022
Total births (all-time)≈ 4,376

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 202219672024

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Amethyst derives from the Greek amethystos, meaning not drunk, from a- (not) and methyein (to be drunk). The purple gemstone was thought to protect its wearer from intoxication. As a given name it has been used sporadically in English-speaking countries as a gem name.

Amethyst belongs to the family of gem names used for girls, alongside Jade, Ruby, Pearl, and Crystal. The name is rare enough to feel distinctive while the crystal's beauty and the name's three-syllable rhythm give it genuine elegance.

Did you know? Ancient Greeks and Romans wore amethyst amulets and drank from amethyst cups, believing the purple stone protected them from becoming drunk. The name literally preserves this ancient superstition in its Greek roots.
Overall data confidence 90%
Behind the Name: Amethyst

Variations

AmethistAmethyste

Nicknames

AmyAmmyThyst

Famous Bearers

  • ★Amethyst (fictional) (fictional)
    One of the Crystal Gems in the animated series Steven Universe, voiced by Michaela Dietz

If you like Amethyst…

Violet— Purple-hued gem/color name
Jade— Gem name of similar beauty
Crystal— Gemstone name for girls
Sapphire— Precious gemstone girl name

Frequently Asked

What does Amethyst mean?

Amethyst means not drunk in Greek, from the belief that the purple stone prevented intoxication.

Is Amethyst a popular name?

Amethyst is a rare and distinctive gem name for girls, uncommon enough to feel truly unique.

How do you pronounce Amethyst?

Amethyst is pronounced AM-eh-thist, with three syllables.

What are similar gem names to Amethyst?

Similar gem names include Jade, Ruby, Crystal, and Sapphire.