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).
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.
Diamond
Comes from the Greek word, "adamus" which means unconquerable, utterly
unyielding in attitude or opinion in spite of all appeals, urgings etc.
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.
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.
Opal
Greek word "op�llios" meaning gem and a source akin to Sanskrit "upala" precious
stone.
Pearl
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
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.
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.
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.