Amethyst for February

For individuals with February birthdays, the amethyst makes a perfect birthstone. Often associated with qualities of peace, courage and stability—is the right gem for individuals who need a little extra warmth and strength this time of year.

A beautiful purple quartz, the amethyst is an easily recognisable gem, but you may not know everything about it just yet! Learn more about the amethyst below.

Amethyst is purple quartz and is a beautiful blend of violet and red that can be found in every corner of the earth. The name comes from the Ancient Greek, derived from the word “methustos,” which means “intoxicated.” Ancient wearers believed the gemstone could protect them from drunkenness.

Amethyst, as previously mentioned, is composed of quartz, which is the second most abundant material found in the Earth’s crust. Amethyst gets its colour from irradiation, iron impurities and the presence of trace elements. Its hardness (a 7 on the Mohs scale) is the same as other quartz, which makes it a durable and lasting option for jewellery.

While amethyst is most commonly recognised to be a purple colour, the gemstone can actually range from a light pinkish violet to a deep purple that can read more blue or red, depending on the light. Sometimes, even the same stone can have layers or colour variants, so the way the gemstone is cut is important to the way the colour shows in a finished piece.

Amethyst often occurs in geodes or in the cavities of granitic rocks. It can be found all over the world, including the United States, Canada Brazil and Zambia.

The amethyst is not only the February birthstone, it is also used to celebrate the 6^th and 17^thyear of marriage. (www.americangemsociety.org)