February Birthstone Amethyst: 7 Key Facts

The Regal Quartz of February

Amethyst, the enchanting purple variety of quartz, is renowned for its stunning hue and its rich history and myriad fascinating properties.

As the February birthstone, amethyst has long been associated with various attributes, including tranquillity and clarity. Its name is derived from the Ancient Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicated,” reflecting the stone’s historical use in warding off drunkenness and promoting sobriety.

This captivating gemstone ranges from pale lavender to deep violet, with the most prized specimens exhibiting a rich, saturated hue. The colour is primarily due to the presence of iron impurities and natural radiation. Interestingly, amethyst can be found in numerous locations worldwide, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia, each producing unique variations in colour and clarity.

Gemmologists appreciate amethyst not only for its beauty but also for its durability. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, it is suitable for everyday wear. Its vibrant colour and accessibility make it a popular choice for various jewellery pieces, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. The striking visual appeal of amethyst, combined with its intriguing geological formation, ensures its status as a timeless favourite among jewellery enthusiasts and collectors alike.

February Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism

For centuries, the February birthstone, amethyst, has been linked with calm, clear thinking and protection. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that wearing amethyst, or drinking from a cup carved from it, would keep the mind sharp and guard against intoxication. In medieval Europe the gem was worn as an amulet for protection and composure, and its purple colour, long associated with royalty, made it a favourite of monarchs and the clergy.

Legend even has it that St Valentine wore an amethyst ring engraved with the figure of Cupid, a fitting story for a gem that belongs to the month of Valentine’s Day. Today, many people choose amethyst as a gift to mark a February birthday or as a symbol of peace and sincerity.

7 Facts About the February Birthstone, Amethyst

It was once as valuable as ruby and emerald. Until large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century, amethyst was considered one of the most precious gems.
Heat can change its colour. When amethyst is heated it can turn yellow to orange-brown, and much of the citrine on the market began life as amethyst.
It can share a crystal with citrine. Ametrine is a naturally occurring bicoloured quartz that combines purple amethyst and golden citrine, mined mainly in Bolivia.
It grows inside geodes. Amethyst crystals often line hollow cavities in volcanic rock, and some geodes from Brazil and Uruguay are large enough for a person to stand inside.
It has royal and religious connections. Amethyst has traditionally been set in bishops’ rings and appears in royal regalia, including the British Crown Jewels.
Sunlight can fade it. Prolonged exposure to strong light or heat may cause the colour of some amethysts to lighten over time.
It marks more than birthdays. As well as being the February birthstone, amethyst is the traditional gem for a sixth wedding anniversary.

Choosing and Caring for February Birthstone Amethyst Jewellery

Colour is the most important factor when judging the quality of amethyst. The finest stones show a strong reddish purple to purple with no visible colour zoning, and they are neither so dark that they appear black in dim light nor so pale that they look washed out. Because amethyst is usually free of inclusions visible to the naked eye, even large stones can offer excellent clarity at an accessible price.

To keep your February birthstone amethyst looking its best, clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, and avoid steam cleaning or sudden changes in temperature. Store amethyst jewellery away from harder gems such as diamond and sapphire, which can scratch it, and keep it out of prolonged direct sunlight.