February Birthstone
February is the month with Amethyst as its Birthstone a violet variety quartz gemstone.It is a also a 6th anniversary gemstone.
As amethyst is readily available in large structures the value of the gem is not primarily defined by carat weight; this is different to most gemstones where the carat weight exponentially increases the value of the stone. The biggest factor in the value of amethyst is the colour displayed. The highest grade amethyst (called “Deep Russian”) is exceptionally rare and therefore, when one is found, its value is dependent on the demand of collectors
The Greeks believed amethyst gems could prevent intoxication as in Greek the translation for Amethyst means ” not drunken “.As word amethyst comes from the Greek meaning “without drunkenness” amethyst is believed to protect one from poison and it is also worn to ensure a sober mind. It is also said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage.
At one time, only royalty could wear the gem, and in the Middle Ages, it was considered a symbol of royalty and used to decorate English regalia. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor were considered great private jewellery collectors and style icons in the 20thcentury. One particular famous piece, was an amethyst necklace by Cartier, commissioned by the Duchess in 1947. This same piece sold in 1987 for $605,000.00. Some have suggested the Duke purchased these jewelry pieces for his Duchess to make up for the throne he could not give her. We are not sure if this was his intention but it does highlight how jewellery has always been a gift of love.
Amethyst is a meditative and calming stone which works in the emotional, spiritual, and physical planes to promote calm, balance, and peace. It is also used to eliminate impatience.
As it has a hardness of 7 on Moh’s scale it is very suitable for jewellery and when caring for Amethyst it is very important to use the correct cleaning method . It cn be cleaned with soapy water or in Ultrasonic cleaners however it is not a stone that can be steam cleaned so avoid stem cleaning for amethyst.
Amethyst can be set in white , yellow or rose metals and looks equally good in all of them so if you are looking for an amethyst set in silver or in gold you will find it in your local member from the association of fine jewellers.
