Month of February - Amethyst
Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a stunning purple variety of quartz that has captivated people for thousands of years. Believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus, amethyst takes its name from the Greek word amethystos, meaning not intoxicated. This beautiful gemstone is said to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted.
History and Origin
Throughout history, amethyst has been associated with royalty, myths, and spiritual power. English regalia were decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty, and the gemstone was once considered as precious as diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Catherine the Great of Russia had a passion for amethyst and sent thousands of miners to the Ural Mountains in search of fine specimens. Until large deposits were found in Brazil in the 19th century, amethyst was extremely rare and valued accordingly.
Symbolism and Meaning
Amethyst has long been linked to clarity of mind and sobriety. Ancient Romans drank from amethyst-studded goblets in the belief that the stone would prevent intoxication. In the Christian tradition, bishops often wore amethyst rings, and the stone was considered a symbol of piety and celibacy. Today, amethyst is associated with peace, balance, and inner strength, making it a thoughtful gift for anyone born in February.
Colors and Varieties
Amethyst is purple quartz, a beautiful blend of violet and red that can be found in every corner of the earth. Colors range from a light, pinkish lavender to a deep, saturated purple. The most prized shade is a rich, medium-dark purple with flashes of red, sometimes called Siberian amethyst after the now-depleted Russian mines that once produced the finest specimens. Ametrine, a naturally occurring combination of amethyst and citrine, displays zones of both purple and golden yellow in a single stone.
Durability and Care
With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is durable enough for everyday jewelry including rings, bracelets, and pendants. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water or an ultrasonic cleaner. However, prolonged exposure to strong sunlight can cause the color to fade over time, so amethyst jewelry should be stored away from direct light when not being worn.
Today, while Brazil is the primary source of amethyst, fine material can also be found in Zambia, Uruguay, and South Korea. Whether set in a simple pendant or an elaborate cocktail ring, amethyst remains one of the most popular and affordable colored gemstones available.