FEBRUARY BIRTHSTONE AMETHYST: Its Magic & Biblical Origin

Origin of February Birthstone Amethyst in the Bible

Birthstones are gemstones traditionally associated with the months of the year. Each birthstone holds special significance to individuals born in its respective month, and is believed to bring them luck, protection and other benefits. While the modern list of birthstones has evolved over time, the February birthstone has remained the same since the beginning of the tradition.

The natal stone for February is amethyst. The recognition of this gem as the February birthstone originated from an interpretation of the Bible. In the Book of Exodus, amethyst is one of the gemstones adorning the breastplate of Aaron, the high priest of Israel. Later on, the gemstones from the priestly breastplate became the birthstones of the months.

In the Book of Revelation, amethyst is one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:19-20 describes how the heavenly city’s foundations bore twelve precious stones, the twelfth of which was amethyst. Its place as the twelfth foundation stone made amethyst the birthstone of the twelfth sign of the zodiac, Pisces, as well as the corresponding month of February.

Physical Characteristics of February Birthstone Amethyst

The February birthstone amethyst possesses several distinctive properties, which contribute to its allure and popularity.

1. Color

The most recognizable feature of amethyst is its vibrant color, ranging from light lavender to deep purple. This coloration is due to trace amounts of iron within the quartz crystal.

2. Transparency

Amethyst typically exhibits good transparency, allowing light to pass through and showcase the depth of the stone’s color. However, some specimens may contain inclusions or zoning, which affect their clarity. Others are translucent altogether.

3. Hardness

In the Mohs scale, amethyst has a hardness of 7, making this stone relatively durable and suitable for use in jewelry and decorative items.

4. Luster

The luster of amethyst is vitreous, giving the stone a glassy appearance when polished.

5. Crystal Structure

Like all crystalline varieties of quartz, amethyst has a hexagonal crystal structure, often forming six-sided prismatic crystals with pointed terminations. These rough amethysts can occur as individual formations or in clusters.

Varieties of February Birthstone Amethyst

February birthstone amethyst comes in several captivating kinds, each with its own distinct characteristics. These varieties offer a diverse range of colors and patterns, catering to a wide range of preferences.

1. Deep Purple Amethyst

Prized for its profound color saturation and clarity, deep purple amethyst has the color originally associated with the gem. Its rich and intense purple coloration is the most iconic and traditional representation of amethyst throughout history. In ancient times, this deep purple shade was a symbol of royalty, and remains the most sought-after hue for amethyst gems.

2. Banded Amethyst

Also known as Chevron amethyst, banded amethyst comes in alternating bands of deep purple amethyst and white quartz or translucent chalcedony. With its striking patterns, this variety is sought after for a unique visual appeal, and is commonly used in cabochons.

3. Lavender Amethyst

Lavender amethyst exhibits a light and airy purple color, ranging from pale lilac to soft violet. Often translucent, this variety is prized for its soothing and calming appearance, making it popular for use in relaxation and meditation jewelry.

4. Rose de France Amethyst

Featuring a delicate pinkish-purple hue, Rose de France amethyst is lavender amethyst but with a touch of pink. Typically transparent, this variety exhibits a soft romantic appearance, prized for its subtle coloration.

Historical Use of February Birthstone Amethyst

Throughout history, amethyst has appeared in jewelry and decorative items. Its appearance in myths, legends and folklore from various cultures underscores its enduring significance and widespread appeal.

1. Ancient Egypt

Amethyst was highly valued in ancient Egypt, where the stone figured in jewelry, amulets and burial items. Believed to possess protective qualities, amethyst was associated with the afterlife.

2. Ancient Greece and Rome

Amethyst was a precious gemstone in ancient Greece and Rome. Believed to stave off intoxication, the stone was often worn as jewelry, or carved into drinking vessels to prevent drunkenness.

3. Medieval Europe

During the Middle Ages, European royalty and clergy prized the amethyst. The gemstone was a symbol of power, wealth and piety.

4. Eastern Cultures

In Eastern cultures such as China, amethyst was associated with spiritual enlightenment and clarity of mind. The stone figured in meditation as a symbol of inner peace.

Metaphysical Properties of February Birthstone Amethyst

The February birthstone amethyst carries a wealth of symbolism and metaphysical properties, making it a cherished gemstone for spiritual practitioners and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

1. Protection

Amethyst signifies protection against negative energies, psychic attacks and intoxication. The stone was believed to act as a shield against harm, and to promote spiritual well-being.

2. Clarity and Calmness

Amethyst is often linked to mental clarity, calmness and emotional balance. The stone soothes the mind, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

3. Spirituality

Amethyst has strong connections to spirituality and higher consciousness. Many believe that wearing or meditating with amethyst can enhance spiritual growth, intuition and psychic abilities.

4. Wisdom and Enlightenment

In various cultures, amethyst is a symbol of wisdom and insight. The stone often signifies the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. Thus, amethyst stimulates the mind, enhances concentration and facilitates decision-making.

5. Transformation and Growth

Some cultures believe that amethyst can aid in personal transformation and spiritual growth. The stone is associated with the shedding of old habits, negative patterns and emotional baggage, thus allowing for personal evolution and renewal.

6. Royalty and Luxury

Historically, amethyst has been associated with royalty, wealth and luxury. Once reserved for monarchs and nobility, the stone’s rich purple color symbolizes power, prestige and sophistication.

7. Healing Properties

Amethyst is thought to possess healing properties for the body, mind and spirit. The stone is believed to alleviate physical ailments such as headaches, insomnia and digestive issues. Additionally, amethyst promotes emotional healing and eases feelings of anxiety or depression.

Modern Uses of February Birthstone Amethyst

A notable collection of amethyst jewelry is the parure worn by Queen Mary of the United Kingdom. This parure featured several large amethysts set in a classic tiara, a necklace, earrings and brooch. Later on, amethyst made appearances on red carpets. Famous celebrities wore amethyst jewelry at prestigious events, showcasing the gemstone’s elegance and sophistication to a global audience. Indeed, to this day, the February birthstone continues to be highly valued and widely used in various forms of jewelry.

1. Fine Jewelry

Amethyst is a popular choice for fine jewelry, such as rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The stone’s vibrant purple color and versatility make amethyst suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs.

2. Statement Pieces

Designers often incorporate large, faceted amethyst gemstones into statement jewelry to showcase their beauty and brilliance. These bold and eye-catching designs make a statement, and add a pop of color to any ensemble.

3. Pairing with Various Metals

Amethyst pairs well with a variety of metals, including sterling silver, yellow gold, rose gold and white gold. Moreover, jewelry designers experiment with mixed metal combinations to create unique and modern pieces that highlight the gemstone’s beauty.

4. Layering and Stacking

Layering and stacking jewelry are popular trends in the fashion world, and amethyst pieces are frequently incorporated into layered looks. Whether it’s stacking rings, layering necklaces, or mixing and matching bracelets, amethyst adds depth and dimension to layered jewelry styles.

5. Custom Designs

Custom-designed jewelry allows for unique and meaningful creations tailored to individual preferences. With the rise of custom jewelry services, individuals can create personalized pieces featuring amethyst gemstones.

6. Innovative Settings

Jewelry designers are continually exploring innovative ways to showcase amethyst. This includes unique settings, such as asymmetrical designs, geometric shapes and organic forms, which can highlight the natural beauty of the gemstone.

February Birthstone Color

The February birthstone color typically comes in shades of violet, ranging from delicate lavender to deep purple. Amethyst, the traditional birthstone for February, epitomizes these colors, particularly in its stunning purple hues. Indeed, the February birthstone color especially refers to the rich and intense coloration of deep purple amethyst, which typically displays vibrant hues varying from royal violet to velvety plum.

Still, regardless of the specific variety, amethyst continues to captivate with its mesmerizing purple hues, making it a cherished gemstone for those born in February.

Sources of February Birthstone Amethyst

February birthstone amethyst occurs in numerous locations around the world, with each region producing unique specimens appreciated for their color, clarity and size. A few examples of notable amethyst deposits are as follows.

1. Brazil

Brazil is the largest producer of amethyst in the world. The rough crystals in particular occur in the state of Minas Gerais. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the city of Ametista do Sul is renowned for its deep-purple amethyst geodes, often containing large crystals of exceptional quality.

2. Zambia

Zambia is known for producing amethysts with rich, saturated purple hues. The mines in the Kariba region yield high-quality specimens favored for their intense color and clarity.

3. Uruguay

Uruguay is famous for its distinctive amethyst geodes, primarily found in the Artigas region. These geodes boast deep purple crystals with excellent transparency.

4. Russia

The Ural Mountains of Russia have historically been a significant source of amethyst, including the prized Siberian amethyst known for its deep purple color and exceptional clarity.

5. United States

Several states in the U.S. have significant amethyst deposits. These include Arizona, North Carolina and Georgia. Arizona in particular is known for its Four Peaks amethyst, prized for its deep color and high clarity.

Care and Maintenance of February Birthstone Amethyst

Caring for February birthstone amethyst is relatively straightforward, but there are some important tips to keep in mind to ensure its beauty and longevity. By following these tips, one can ensure that their amethyst jewelry remains beautiful and well-maintained for years to come.

1. Storage

While amethyst is relatively durable, the stone can still suffer scratches from harder materials, such as diamonds and sapphire. Thus, to prevent scratching, store your amethyst jewelry separately from other gemstones. Use a soft pouch or jewelry box to keep each piece safe and secure.

2. Gentle Cleaning

Clean your amethyst jewelry regularly using warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these may damage the stone or cause discoloration, particularly in the case of dyed materials.

3. Avoid Heat and Sunlight

While amethyst is generally stable and can be worn outdoors without significant risk, it’s advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as well as high temperatures, as prolonged exposure can cause fading or color changes.

4. Minimal Contact with Chemicals

Avoid exposing your amethyst jewelry to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, perfumes and hairsprays. These substances can dull the stone’s luster or cause damage over time.

5. Regular Inspections

Periodically inspect your amethyst jewelry for any signs of damage or loose settings. Promptly address any issues by seeking professional repair services to prevent further damage.

The Magic of February Birthstone Amethyst

From ancient civilizations to modern society, amethyst continues to captivate with its beauty and versatility. The stone’s rich symbolism and enduring popularity make amethyst a beloved gemstone for those born in February.

Do you like the February birthstone? Share this article with your friends and spread the word about the magic of amethyst!