February Birthstone - The Amethyst

In addition to its significance as the birthstone for February, Amethyst is the astrological sign of Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn, and is the symbolic gemstone for the 17th wedding anniversary. Amethyst is a member of the quartz family and although it is always purple, it does have a wide range of purple shades. 

Amethyst is popular for its color and nice crystal shapes that appear in sparkling purple clusters, but, amethyst is not the same everywhere.  Experts can often determine the source mine that a particular amethyst came from by its color, shape, formation and the particles that are found inside the crystal. Amethyst can be found in Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Canada, Africa, Italy, Russia, Germany and the United States.

Amethyst is the  the Zodiac stone for the constellation of Pisces and is associated with spirituality, wisdom, sobriety, and security.  

The ancient Greeks believed that Amethyst was very powerful, and that it would protect them against the effects of intoxication.  In fact, the word Amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning sober.   Wine was often served in Amethyst goblets in the belief that this would prevent overindulgence. 

Amethyst is significant for its use in jewels worn by the rich and royal in history. Amethyst has long been identified with the color of royalty - purple. Amethyst has been found in ruins dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning crowns, scepters, jewelry, and breastplates worn into battle.   A large Amethyst is among the closely guarded gemstones in the British Crown Jewels. Amethyst is also symbolic of spirituality and piety.  

Amethyst was used by the Egyptians and Romans as a talismans and amulets. Soldiers wore these stones in medallions for protection and calmness in battle. Amethyst was used in the home for protection against poison and evil spirits.

It has been used to ornament churches and crosses used in religious ceremony. The Amethyst is the stone of St. Valentine, who is said to have always worn it.

During the Middle Ages in the days of romance and chivalry, if an amethyst was presented by a lady to her knight, or a bride to her husband in the shape of a heart set in silver, it was said to confer the greatest possible earthly happiness on the pair who would be blessed with good fortune for the remainder of their lives.

Today, amethyst is a lovely and affordable gemstone that is fortunately available in a wide variety of cut and uncut stones that we can all possess and admire. The gift of Amethyst is symbolic of protection and the power to overcome difficulty.  

It is said to strengthen the bond in a love relationship, so it is an ideal anniversary or engagement gem.  Whether or not Amethyst holds such power, it's stunning beauty will certainly make anyone who wears it feel like royalty!