February Birthstone: The Timeless Beauty of Amethyst
February's birthstone, Amethyst, is a variety of quartz renowned for its striking purple hues and deep historical significance. Amethyst has been valued for centuries for its beauty and symbolic associations with wisdom, peace, and protection.
What is the February Birthstone?
The official birthstone for February is Amethyst, a purple gemstone that ranges in colour from pale lavender to deep violet. It is one of the most well-known and widely used gemstones, admired for its durability and versatility in jewelry.
History and Symbolism of Amethyst
Known since antiquity, Amethyst has held a prominent place in history as it has been used by cultures all over the world for mystical and protective use. It was thought in ancient Greece and Rome to avert intoxication, so wine goblets were often carved from the stone to prevent overindulgence. "Amethyst" comes from the Greek word amethystos, or "not drunken." The Egyptians made amulets and carvings out of it, believing it offered protection and good luck.
In the Middle Ages, Amethyst respectively was a symbol of piety and wisdom. Bishops often wore rings set with this gemstone to signify spiritual clarity. Amethyst's deep purple hue also rendered it an attractive gemstone for royalty, as it was historically associated with power and prestige.
Amethyst, in modern times, is thought to bring calm, clarity of thought and emotional balance. Many people feel it improves spiritual perception and protects against negativity. Its soothing properties also render it popular for meditation and holistic healing practices.
Choosing an Amethyst Jewellery
When purchasing Amethyst jewelry, several factors should be considered to ensure quality. The most desirable Amethysts display deep, rich purple tones with flashes of red or blue. Stones that appear too pale or have brown or gray undertones may be lower quality. High-quality Amethyst is transparent with minimal inclusions, while well-cut stones exhibit excellent brilliance.
Amethyst is available in various shapes, including oval, round, emerald, and cushion cuts. Unlike many other gemstones, it remains affordable even in larger carat sizes, making it an excellent choice for statement jewellery without an exorbitant price tag.
Famous Amethyst Jewellery and Artifacts
The Delhi Sapphire Amethyst
One of the most famous amethyst is the Delhi Sapphire Amethyst, a large gemstone in the British Museum. This misleadingly named beautiful gem is a striking Amethyst known to have brought bad luck to its former owners. Some say that it was stolen from an Indian temple and then became linked to a given string of unfortunate events and calamities that occurred to its owners. Today, it continues to be a fascinating object, capturing the imagination of gem aficionados and historians alike.
The British Crown Jewels
Several other stunning Amethyst pieces are also part of the British Crown Jewels and serve to reinforce the gem’s link with nobility and power. Many of these crown jewels have been passed down from generation to generation, worn by monarchs and other members of the royal family. The intense, royal purple colour that Amethyst has was once worn only on members of the upper class, and as such, it has always been a precious stone of European royalty. Amethyst pieces in their collections have historically been favoured by figures including Queen Mary.
Celebrity Amethyst Jewellery
Aside from royalty, Amethyst pieces continue to grace red carpets and trend through the fashion world. The timeless beauty of Amethyst is proven by famous personalities like Kate Middleton, Rihanna and Elizabeth Taylor, who home such sparkling earrings. Be it elaborate necklaces or striking cocktail rings, Amethyst continues to be a treasured gemstone for lovers of beauty and its deeper significance.
Caring for Amethyst Jewellery
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty of Amethyst jewelry. It should be cleaned using lukewarm water and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach or ultrasonic cleaners. After cleaning, the gemstone should be dried with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Amethyst should be stored separately from harder gemstones like diamonds to prevent scratches. Prolonged exposure to sunlight should also be avoided, as UV rays can cause its vibrant colour to fade over time.
Find Your Perfect Amethyst Jewellery
Amethyst is a stunning, meaningful, and versatile gemstone, making it a perfect choice for collectors and jewelry lovers alike. Whether you appreciate its rich history, spiritual properties, or timeless beauty, Amethyst continues to captivate hearts around the world.
Explore Montecristo’s exquisite jewellery collection, featuring high-quality gemstones and expertly crafted designs. Whether you seek a thoughtful birthstone gift, an elegant pendant, or a bold statement ring, Montecristo offers timeless pieces that will be cherished for a lifetime.
