Everything You Need To Know About February Birthstone Jewelry
Celebrate February with the enchanting allure of amethyst, the gemstone of love and clarity. Our February birthstone jewelry combines timeless elegance with a touch of personal meaning, making it the perfect gift for someone special—or yourself!
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Estimated read time:
9 minutesFor those born in February, amethyst is a truly enchanting birthstone.
Amethyst has captured hearts and imaginations for centuries with its mesmerizing purple tones and rich symbolism.
This gem is more than just a pretty face; it’s known for bringing clarity, offering protection, and inspiring spiritual wisdom, lending it an almost mystical allure.
Beloved by royals and spiritual leaders alike, amethyst has adorned crowns, sacred altars, and everything in between.
In this guide, we’ll journey through the fascinating world of amethyst, exploring its origins, legendary status in history, and the stunning range of colors it offers.
Plus, we’ll share tips on choosing, caring for, and making the most of this timeless gemstone.
Let’s dive in and discover the magic of February’s birthstone!
In this article...
Amethyst History, Meaning, and Notable Examples
Amethyst has a fascinating history and rich symbolism. In ancient Greece, it was believed to ward off drunkenness and overindulgence—its name originates from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicated.”
Across cultures, amethyst has been regarded as a stone of protection and clarity.
Medieval European soldiers wore amethysts as a protective charm in battle, while in Eastern cultures, it symbolized spiritual wisdom and peace.
Today, amethyst remains a symbol of calm, courage, and balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a mindful, spiritually grounded gem.
Famous Amethysts
Some amethysts have gained legendary status over the centuries, celebrated for their remarkable size, beauty, and the intriguing stories surrounding them.
British Crown Jewels
The royal collection of British Crown Jewels includes stunning amethysts set in brooches, necklaces, and crowns, underscoring the gem’s royal appeal and elegance.
Amethyst’s regal purple hue has long been associated with power and nobility, making it a natural choice for the adornment of royalty.
One of the most iconic pieces is the Amethyst Necklace and Brooch of Queen Alexandra, a stunning set in the British Crown Jewels.
Queen Alexandra, wife of King Edward VII, was known for her love of amethysts and often wore them as symbols of her royal status.
Her amethyst necklace and brooch feature large, deeply colored amethysts surrounded by diamonds, highlighting the gem’s luxurious allure.
This set became one of her signature looks and helped establish amethyst as a gemstone of nobility and sophistication.
The Duchess of Windsor’s Amethyst Bib Necklace is another renowned piece of amethyst jewelry. Commissioned by the Duke of Windsor as a gift for his wife, Wallis Simpson, this extravagant bib necklace was crafted by Cartier in 1947.
The necklace features several large, cushion-cut amethysts framed by diamonds, and its bold design perfectly complements Wallis Simpson’s iconic, avant-garde style.
Known for her impeccable taste and style, Simpson wore this necklace on many occasions, helping cement amethyst as a stone of elegance and power.
Sources, Types, and Colors of Amethyst
Amethyst is sourced from around the world, with some regions producing particularly notable specimens.
Brazil
Brazil stands as the world’s largest producer of amethyst, accounting for over 90% of the global supply.
Brazilian amethysts are known for their rich purple hues and high clarity, making them a staple in the jewelry industry.
Major amethyst deposits are located in several states, including Rio Grande do Sul, Bahia, and Minas Gerais.
Notable Brazilian mines include the Maraba Amethyst Mine in Pará and the Ametista do Sul Mine in Rio Grande do Sul, both of which produce some of the world’s finest specimens.
Zambia
Zambia is another significant player in the amethyst market, producing around 20% of the world’s amethyst supply.
Zambian amethysts are known for their deep, intense purple color, often with a bluish tint that adds a distinctive cool tone to the gemstone.
The most famous amethyst mine in Zambia is the Kariba Amethyst Mine, located in the country’s northwestern region.
Uruguay
Although smaller in scale, Uruguay is renowned for producing some of the highest-quality amethysts, characterized by a unique violet-blue hue and exceptional clarity.
Uruguayan amethysts account for approximately 10% of the world’s supply and are especially valued for their brightness and brilliance.
Notable mines in Uruguay include the Artigas Mine and the Piedras de Ambar Mine, both located in the Artigas region near the Brazilian border.
Color Varieties & Significance
Amethyst’s color ranges from light lavender to deep, royal purple, with the most valuable stones featuring a rich, uniform hue.
The depth and saturation of amethyst’s color play a significant role in its value.
Lighter shades may appear more delicate and romantic, while darker stones exude a sense of luxury and sophistication.
Whether you prefer the gentle charm of a pale amethyst or the intensity of a deep purple stone, amethyst’s color spectrum offers something for everyone.
Our Favorite Amethyst Pieces
Le Vian Chocolatier Large Oval Cut Amethyst Chocolate Diamond Ring
Gabriel & Co Amethyst Diamond Halo Stud Earrings
Gabriel & Co Round Cut Amethyst Diamond Halo Pendant
Care, Maintenance, and Buying Tips for Amethysts
Amethyst ranks 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear.
However, to keep it looking its best, avoid exposing amethyst to harsh chemicals or prolonged sunlight, which can cause color fading.
Clean your amethyst jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or you can use an ultrasonic cleaner.
Store amethyst pieces separately to prevent scratching from harder gemstones.
Buying Guide
When buying an amethyst, focus on the color, clarity, and cut.
Look for stones with a vibrant, even color—generally, the richer the purple, the more valuable the gem.
Clarity is also essential, with high-quality amethysts being nearly flawless to the naked eye.
Featured Women's February Birthstone Jewelry
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A well-cut amethyst will maximize its brilliance, showcasing the gem’s natural beauty.
Be sure to inquire about the stone's origin and treatments, as this can impact its value.
Certified stones from reputable sources ensure quality and authenticity.
Conclusion
February’s birthstone, amethyst, is a captivating gem that offers not only stunning beauty but also the promise of clarity, protection, and inner peace to those who wear it.
Its regal purple hue, cherished by royals and revered by ancient cultures, carries a unique charm that makes every piece of amethyst jewelry feel both timeless and meaningful.
Explore Ben Garelick’s carefully curated collection of amethyst jewelry to find the piece that speaks to you.
Visit our showroom to experience these beautiful gems in person or connect with one of our gemstone experts online.
Your perfect amethyst awaits—discover its magic and make it a part of your story today!
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