Rising since 1986, #1,241 for girls today.
Popularity of Amethyst since 1967
Babies named Amethyst per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 16 |
| 1970s | 100 |
| 1980s | 345 |
| 1990s | 897 |
| 2000s | 834 |
| 2010s | 1,171 |
| 2020s | 1,197 |
Meaning & origin
Amethyst, first recorded in the United States in 1967, has been on a steady upward trajectory in use since 1986. The name reached its peak popularity in 2022, and as of 2023 it ranked 1,241st nationally, with an incidence of 1 in 8,880 births. The states of Oregon, Indiana, and Arizona show the highest concentration of Amethysts per capita, suggesting a regional appeal perhaps linked to nature-inspired naming trends. As a gemstone name, Amethyst fits alongside Jade, Ruby, and Pearl, but remains less common than these classics, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar sound. Its etymology ties to an ancient Greek belief about protective powers, adding a layer of historical intrigue.
Amethyst derives from the Greek word 'amethystos', which combines 'a-' (not) and 'methystos' (to be drunk). The name refers to the ancient belief that the stone could prevent intoxication. It entered English as a given name in the late 19th century, part of the Victorian fashion for gemstone names, and saw increased use in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Where Amethyst is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Amy, Ami, Methy
Sibling names for Amethyst
Names that share Amethyst's style, for a brother or sister.
