The ancient Greeks and Romans referred to amethyst as "amethystos," which means "not drunk" or "against intoxication." Amethyst was a popular adornment for drinkware and talismans to ward off drunkenness and promote clear thinking and sobriety. The earliest evidence of amethyst use dates back to the Neolithic period, around 10,000 BCE, where amethyst beads and jewelry were found in archaeological sites. Ancient Egyptians also used amethyst in their jewelry, and it was considered a symbol of royalty and power.