Amethyst - February Birthstone

Featured Gemstone for the February birth month is the beautiful purple gem from the Quartz Family known as Amethyst. Amethyst is often seen in many gem forms from large natural individual crystals right through to hollowed out Geode’s lined inside with a carpet full of Amethyst crystals. This relative abundance of Amethyst compared to rarer precious gems makes it attainable at an attractive price in large clean crystals creating amazing cut gemstones is large sizes.

Ancient Egyptians prized heart shaped Amethyst as part of their burial rituals. Early Roman Christian hierarchy also valued Amythest associating the rich purple colour with high rank in society. Even the radiation of purple light from the gem itself is credited with providing a calming influence on the nerves helping to slow anxiety and fast movements.

Interesting early legends surrounding Amythest claimed that the gemstone possessed the power to stop drunkenness some even drinking wine from Amythest cups as a safe way to indulge in alcohol. The Greek word ‘Amythystos’ meaning ‘non intoxicating’ is the origin of the name for this amazing purple gem. Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder discusses some of the magical properties attributed to Amythyst stating that it should be inscribed with the names of the sun and the moon to act as a powerful protective talisman.

Eastern medicine values Amythest crystal associating the gem with the crown Chakra enhancing spiritual awareness helping one promote a higher state of consciousness. Amythest is often used in meditation practices to promote well-being and protection form negative energies by connecting our consciousness to energies at much higher frequency than we normally would each day. The outcome is intended to help the wearer achieve a sense of warmth and gratitude.

For the jewellery collector the most mesmerising feature of Amethyst is the range of shades exhibited by the purple. This colour is caused by trace amounts of iron in the crystal structure giving a beautiful range of purples from lilac through to a rich deep violet. Pliny the elder favoured the Tyrian purple shade found in Indian Amethyst as the ideal colour. This deep shade is also known as royal purple or imperial purple a reddish-purple natural dye collected from the secretions of Sea snail found round the city of Tyre in ancient Phoenicia.

Rose De France is a light toned pastel variety of Amethyst showing soft lilac, lavender, and pinkish mauve shades making it a soft romantic gemstone that matches well with complimentary pastel hues.

Amethyst is dedicated to Neptune worn by sailors to deliver them to safe harbour.  It is also worn by soldiers as a protection from harm and ensure victory

Amethyst is found in many regions around the world with the most important deposits found Brazil South America. Famous types include ‘Palmeira’ Amythest of Rio Grande Du sol and ‘Maraba’ Amythest of Para. There are other deposits of note found in Madagascar, Zambia, Burma, India, Canada, and Mexico. Keen fossickers find Amethyst crystals and specimens along the eastern seaboard of Australia through to the remote outback.

Gems in the Quartz family are softer, and a little more care needs to be taken when wearing. Pendants and earrings in general are not subject to the same wear and tear as rings however if a ring is desired then a well faceted gem with low angles or a cabochon cut gem can be more durable. Setting a quality hand selected Gemstone in claws with quality handmade metal will allow the gem to be unset and repolished along its life journey giving a lifetime of enjoyment.

Featured here are some of tcity jewellers favourite Amethyst gems, some are set into fine wearable jewellery, some will be set in the coming months into amazing handmade designs that feature this incredible gemstone in the best possible way.