Amethyst - February's Birthstone

Amethyst, the birthstone of February

“…The gem, if rarer, were a precious prize, but now too common it neglected lies; Famed for their power to check the fumes of wine, five different species yields the bounteous mine…”

•          De Lapidibus, Marbode of Rennes’ (1035-1123)

If you were born in the month of February, then you are lucky enough to call this gem your own. 

Amethyst is the birthstone for February, with its rich hues ranging from soft lavender to deep, lush purple and everything in-between. The stone is a member of the quartz family, one of the most abundant minerals on planet Earth. 

But there’s nothing ordinary about Amethyst.

~ An assortment of amethyst gemstones, photo curtesy of Stuller

 In days long past, the stunning purple gem was prized on the same level with other stones like sapphire and emerald. There are no other gems that properly achieve the true-purple color of Amethyst, and that rich hue helped the stone achieve popularity.

 While it is the birthstone for the month of February, it is also associated with the zodiac sign Aquarius, the water bearer.

~ Amethyst bead bracelet by D.Berkley

The Greeks, and later the Romans, thought that the stone prevented drunkenness. For that reason, it was associated with the Greek god Bacchus, and the Roman god Dionysus.  As such, goblets and cups were crafted either from the stone or had the stone embedded in them to make use of this supposed sobering effect.

In fact, some say the modern name ‘Amethyst’ comes from a collection of Greek words; αμέθυστος amethystos from α- a-, "not" nd μεθύσκω methysko / μεθώ metho "intoxicate" – literally translating to “Not Drunk”.

~ Amethyst earrings by Stanton Color

The Romans were especially fond of the color, since they considered purple to be a royal color, and said it would protect the wearer in battle. 

Amethyst is one of the stones listed in the high priest’s breastplate in the Old Testament and also the twelfth foundation stone in the New Jerusalem, as listed in the New Testament of the Bible. 

To this day bishops in the Catholic Church make their signet rings out of amethyst because the stone’s color represents royalty and purity.

~ Amethyst rings by Roman and Jules and Asba

In Tibet, rosaries and carvings of Buddha are commonly made from Amethyst.

The gemstone has always been associated with wisdom or mental endeavors, as well as being a stone of deep love, dreams and intuition.

One legend says that Cleopatra had her own signet ring made with the purple gem to show off not only her wealth, but also her wisdom.

~ Amethyst ring by Lika Behar

The color, both in highly saturated stones and in lighter, pastel tones, is remarkable, and certainly expands any jewelry wardrobe.

As February brings us one step closer to spring, out of the gloomy months of winter, so too Amethyst brings us from the dull monotone with a little pop of color.

Enjoy this delightful gemstone and all it has to offer!

~Blog by Isabelle Corvin, Staff Gemologist and Merchandising Manager at Panowicz Jewelers