February’s Birthstone – The Alluring Amethyst Gemstone

February’s birthstone is the alluring amethyst, a glittering purple gemstone. Amethyst jewelry is a popular gift choice for February birthdays, since wearing an amethyst is thought to bring good luck to those born in February. However, amethyst jewelry makes an excellent gift no matter which month the recipient was born in. This stunning gemstone is loved by many, thanks to its rich color, history, and meaning. Amethyst is a very popular choice for fashion and special occasion jewelry, and it’s also quite popular for unique engagement rings.

Are you thinking of picking up an amethyst piece for yourself or a loved one? Read on to discover more about February’s enchanting birthstone. Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the alluring amethyst, including its history, meaning, and characteristics.

Amethyst History and Meaning

Cushion Cut Purple Amethyst Gemstone Engagement Ring

Ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethyst jewelry, like this mesmerizing diamond and amethyst ring, could help you keep a clear head.

Amethysts have been loved for thousands of years, since the time of the ancient Greeks. The word “amethyst” comes from the ancient Greek word “amethystos,” which means “not drunk.” Ancient Greeks adored purple amethysts and, due to the amethyst’s grape-like color, Greeks associated them with Bacchus, the god of wine. The people of ancient Greece believed that wearing an amethyst (or drinking from an amethyst goblet) would help protect you from drunkenness. In addition to believing that amethysts warded off intoxication, ancient Greeks believed these purple gems could help you keep a clear head in many situations. For example, Greek businessmen often carried amethysts when they went to negotiate business agreements.

Even after the time of ancient Greece, amethysts have been associated with a clear mind. Leonardo da Vinci famously wrote that amethysts enhance intelligence and protect the mind from evil. Then, many Buddhists throughout the ages have believed that amethysts aid in meditation. Today, amethysts are still associated with peace and a clear mind. Many modern crystal healers believe that amethysts provide clarity, enhanced intuition, and protection from negative thoughts and energy.

Amethyst’s Characteristics and Color

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, so it’s quite durable like all quartz gemstones. Amethyst gets its regal violet hue from exposure to iron and natural irradiation. While amethyst is always purple, it can come in a variety of hues. Amethyst can range from a pale pinkish purple to a rich and deep royal purple.

Amethyst in Jewelry

Amethyst is a breathtaking gemstone that looks lovely in many types of jewelry. If you’re shopping for an amethyst piece, you can choose from gorgeous amethyst rings, amethyst earrings, and amethyst necklaces. One of our favorite ways to wear amethyst is in a glamorous amethyst cocktail ring or in a unique purple amethyst engagement ring. With their deep purple color, amethysts look particularly beautiful in rings that are accented with white diamonds. White diamonds add a bright, brilliant contrast that makes the rich violet color of an amethyst look even more luxe.

Caring for Amethyst Rings and Other Amethyst Jewelry

Since it’s both durable and beautiful, amethyst is an excellent choice for an eye-catching ring, like the Halo Purple Amethyst Ring pictured above.

Amethyst is a strong gemstone, coming in at a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Since amethyst is fairly durable, it’s excellent for everyday wear in rings, earrings, necklaces, or bracelets. However, while amethyst is relatively rugged, you should still take care to keep it away from abrasive materials, since it can still get scratched. You should also avoid exposing amethyst to harsh chemicals (including household cleaners), since they can sometimes damage an amethyst gemstone. If you want to clean your amethyst jewelry at home, know that you don’t need any harsh cleaners to keep your amethyst jewelry sparkling. You can simply clean your amethyst jewelry with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or a soft toothbrush.

Final Thoughts

There you have it: everything you need to know about the alluring amethyst! Can’t get enough of this enchanting gemstone? View our full collection of purple amethyst engagement rings.