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Amethyst is a variety of quartz which owes its coloration to the presence of iron in the area of its formation. The word Amethyst is derived from ancient Greek meaning "intoxication". It was believed by both ancient Romans and Greeks, if they wore Amethyst or made their goblets of the material, it would help prevent them from becoming intoxicated. Amethyst has been used in jewelry making for centuries. Spectacular, priceless carvings dating to the ancient Egyptians are displayed in museums. Amethyst is found in many places around the world. However, the most beautiful Amethyst, displaying deep rich purple coloration, is normally found in the countries of Brazil and Uruguay. Amethyst is the birthstone for February.
Willard Wulff (1904-1998) was an avid mineral collector and published an article "Topaz in the Tarryall Mountains of Colorado" in Rocks & Minerals in 1934. He was a prominent figure and a founding member of the Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society in 1936. His extended bio can be found on the Mineralogical Records website.
