This summer marks the 50th anniversary of amethyst being designated as Ontario’s official gemstone — a milestone being celebrated across the province, especially in the Thunder Bay region, where the vivid purple mineral holds both geological and cultural significance.
While many cultures throughout history have attributed mystical origins to amethyst, including the ancient Greeks and early Christian mystics, some First Nations traditions offer a deeply personal and spiritual explanation.
One such story tells of a young girl who became lost in the wilderness while gathering blueberries. As she cried in fear and sorrow, her tears were said to have soaked into the Earth, crystallizing into the purple quartz we now know as amethyst. This origin story imbues the stone with a connection to human emotion, memory and the sacredness of the land — resonating powerfully in a region where nature and spirit are closely intertwined.
Amethyst, a type of quartz, is typically found in hollow rock cavities called vugs, formed within ancient volcanic deposits. Ontario’s deposits — particularly those around Thunder Bay — are believed to be over a billion years old. The crystals grow in stunning hexagonal formations, ranging in color from deep purple to soft lavender and even reddish hues due to inclusions of hematite. Locals have special names for the colors — Precious Purple, Thunder Bay Lavender, Phantom Rove (red) and Black Gem.
On July 8, 1975, amethyst was adopted by the Ontario legislature as the official mineral emblem through the efforts of Minister of Natural Resources Leo Bernier. Bernier, known affectionately as the “Emperor of the North,” believed the mineral should represent the unique natural heritage of Northern Ontario. Though other options, such as sodalite, were considered, amethyst was ultimately selected for its beauty, accessibility and wide distribution across the region.
As part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations, Thunder Bay’s annual Mining Day took on an amethyst theme on June 14, featuring crystal digs, gemstone-themed treats, and educational activities. The nonprofit Mining Matters is also marking the occasion by distributing 50 free Amethyst Kits to young Earth scientists across Canada.
Visitors to Thunder Bay can experience amethyst firsthand at two popular locations. Amethyst Mine Panorama, 60 km east of the city, is Canada’s largest amethyst deposit. Family-owned and operated since the 1960s, the mine offers open-pit digging, self-guided tours, and a gift shop featuring locally crafted jewelry. Diamond Willow Amethyst Mine, located in Pearl, offers similar hands-on experiences, where guests can chisel crystals from vugs and explore the geological history of the area.
For five decades, Ontario’s official mineral has been more than just a gemstone — it’s a symbol of the province’s rich cultural history, spiritual depth and enduring natural beauty. As this anniversary unfolds, amethyst continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those who cherish it.
Credits: Amethyst crystals at the Royal Ontario Museum by David Ceballos from Madrid, España, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Map by Google Maps.
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