When a small committee of women put together a list of possible names for a new treatment centre, there was no shortage of ideas. A number of well-known women associated with addiction treatment were listed, as well as a variety of words representing transformation, discovery, rebirth, inner growth and so on.

One word stood out as a symbol for all of these meanings. Amethyst – a clear purple gem stone mined throughout the world, and significantly in Ontario – derives its name from a Greek word meaning “without intoxification”.

The powers attributed to the Amethyst are as ancient as history itself. As well as being seen as a talisman against drunkenness, the Amethyst was thought to have healing properties, which stimulate intuition and spiritual awakening, while calming passion, emotional violence and anger.

Amethyst, rich in symbolism and beautiful in colour, has come to represent a special place where women find warmth and support and new beginnings.

The word Amethyst is derived the Greek “ametusthos”  meaning “not intoxicated”. The stone is highly esteemed for its stunning beauty and legendary powers to stimulate and soothe the mind and emotions. We give it to our graduates as a symbol of their journey with Amethyst and it can serve as a touchstone in difficult times.