February Birthstone: Amethyst
For the birthstone of the second month of the calendar year, we have amethyst. Long associated with royalty, this beautiful purple stone is believed to strengthen relationships and give courage to those who wear it. And specifically for birth-month wearers, amethyst is a symbol of personal empowerment and inner strength. Also, in some cultures, this purple gemstone is believed to help relieve stress and anxiety.
Throughout history, many cultures have adopted amethyst for a variety of reasons. In ancient Greece, the stone was thought to aid with alleviating drunkenness, and was often associated with Bacchus, the God of wine. The Greek also believed the stone to help keep the wearer quick witted and clear headed in both business affairs, and in battle. Amethyst has long been associated with royalty due to its purple color. This is largely due to the expense that came along with purchasing and wearing purple fabrics by royals. Amazing Amethyst stones and jewelry can be found and traced back to many royal families from Asia and Europe. Actually, at one point only royals were permitted to don the purple stone.
Amethyst deposits have been found in many parts of the world, from Russia to Brazil, Arizona to parts of Africa. These deposits usually contain large geode-like collections of the stone, as well as its love-child with citrine, amethine. However, these deposits are not the only places where amethyst can be found. Lab-created amethyst has been in production since as early as 1970. These lab gemstones are chemically and optically identical to mined amethyst. Most jewelers, even experienced ones, will not be able to tell the difference between the two unless they send it off for certification. But keep in mind, a jeweler will be required to inform you of the origin of any gemstone or diamond, whether lab-made or naturally mined.
If you, or a loved one, are lucky enough to have an amethyst piece, keep in mind that it comes in at a 7 on the Mohr Hardness Scale. This basically means you should be careful when storing it near diamond, sapphire, or ruby pieces, as well as pearls or opal. Amethyst is great for daily use, but will begin to show its age over time, so regular polishing and cleaning is a must for your go-to amethyst jewelry. However, if you don’t have time for ultrasonic cleaning or professional polishing, don’t worry, because using a soft brush and mild soap will give your gemstone piece a shine in no time.
Shop CLT Jewels today for the best selection of antique and vintage estate jewelry. Stop by Malak Jewelers today to browse our collection of amethyst jewelry, other gemstones, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, 22k gold, estate jewelry, rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and other fine jewelry. We are located in South Charlotte, North Carolina, in The Arboretum Shopping Center at the corner of Providence Road and Pineville-Matthews / Highway 51. We are open from 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday.