Every month of the year has its own distinctive stone that is used for making jewellery, and February is certainly no exception to this rule. The winter month’s most commonly associated stone is Amethyst – a semi-precious stone which may date back to ancient times but which has only recently been discovered and brought to the market.
There are many fascinating beliefs linked with Amethyst, so read on to learn more about this unusual stone.
What Is Amethyst?
The semi-precious Amethyst is a variation of quartz (i.e. a crystalline mineral that is made up of silica) with a distinctive purple hue. It boasts a stunning violet shade due to iron contamination, irradiation, and sometimes from other transition metals together with other trace elements that are often present.
The name “Amethyst” comes from the Greek language and, in translation, it means “Not Drunk”. The reason for this lies in the fact that, in ancient Greek culture, it was believed that it had the power to keep their owner from experiencing drunkenness! As a result, many Ancient Greeks took care to wear Amethyst jewellery, and they even made some drinking vessels out of this stone believing that it could keep them safe from becoming intoxicated!
Although these days we don’t tend to seer a lot of Amethyst drinking glasses, we do see a lot of Amethyst jewellery as, thanks to its solidity, it’s a perfect choice for rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
The Origins, Properties, And Formation Processes Of Amethysts
Amethyst can be found around the globe in several locations. Most of its production took place between 2000 – 2010 in Brazil, Uruguay, Ontario, Zambia, and Bolivia. In the Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil, Amethyst was found in huge geodes inside volcanic rocks, and that makes this South American country one of the top Amethyst producers today.
There are several different primary variations of Amethyst. While some are pale violet or light lavender in colour, others are deep purple. However, the ideal class of this gem is known as “Deep Siberian”. Its purple hue is around 75% – 80%, with 15% – 20% red and blue secondary variations.
Amethysts with a light lilac shade are sometimes known by the name “Rose de France”. While at one time these gemstones were considered to be less desirable than those with a darker colouring, more recently clever marketing has led to this variation becoming more popular.
Although Amethyst occurs naturally, it’s also possible to create synthetic versions of these gemstones. They can be created in a laboratory using a technique known as “hydrothermal growth”. This method allows the crystals to develop in a high-pressured autoclave. Lab-created amethyst imitates all of the finest qualities of this stunning purple stone, even down to having the same physical and chemical properties as natural amethyst. In fact, it’s impossible to tell the difference unless the stone is subjected to advanced testing.
As the most valuable quartz crystal gemstone, Amethyst has a Mohs scale rating of 7, making it very scratch-resistant and ideal for use in all kinds of gold and silver jewellery.
The Amethyst February Birthstone Jewellery Meanings
Beautiful Amethyst crystal is regularly used to make all kinds of jewellery, however like most other gemstones, it comes with a host of possible meanings that come from various cultures and belief systems.
While Ancient Greek people believe Amethyst could guard against drunkenness, soldiers in medieval Europe wore amulets containing this precious stone as they believed it could heal people while also helping them to keep a cool head in battle. Meanwhile, in ancient times in China, Amethyst was believed to be capable of removing negative energies and driving away hazards in everyday life.
One of the most interesting uses for Amethyst was in love spells. Ancient peoples would say the name of someone they loved to an Amethyst in order to summon them.
Amethyst also has a use in alternative medicine. It’s said to be a natural tranquiliser, relieving strain and stress, affecting mood swings, dispelling anger, and eradicating anxiety, fear and rage. It’s said to also heal insomnia, boost spiritual wisdom, strengthen immunity, and encourage selflessness, while combating numerous diseases including cancer and lung diseases.
Most often, though, Amethyst is used in creating spectacular rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings for other special occasions. You can check out some truly astonishing pieces with amethyst on our website that are sure to catch the eye for all the right reasons.
How Much is the Birthstone Amethyst Worth?
Although some gemstones are extremely costly, Amethyst is often surprisingly affordable, even at high grades. The price of Amethyst varies depending on its purple colouring and its origin. Although darker shades of purple are often more prized by experts, it’s important to note that they aren’t as sparkly as lighter toned stones.
Amethyst prices range between £15 – £22 per carat, and you can find breath-taking pieces costing around £30 per carat.
Completely untreated, clean stones are the most attractive of all, and they come in quite large sizes. Since Amethyst is very durable, you can wear it regularly without worrying about scratches and damage.
Choose Amethyst Jewellery
Amethyst is the official February birthstone and despite having only been relatively recently discovered, it has become an incredibly popular gift thanks to its beautiful colouring which varies from bluish purple to yellow or even red. Its slightly transparent structure makes it even more visually attractive, and it can be found worldwide.
Valued for allegedly having healing and protective properties, Amethysts are frequently used in alternative medicine, but for most people, giving or receiving it in a special piece of jewellery is the most common use.
Whether set in a gorgeous Pandora charm, a spectacular pendant necklace or birthstone bracelet, or a companion gemstone in a diamond ring, Amethyst is a gemstone that never fails to impress, whatever the occasion.
If you’re ready to buy a gift containing the birthstone for February, check out our store and see stunning pieces of Amethyst jewellery.