Amethyst: A Stone of Royalty

February babies, do I have a stone for you! Meet amethyst, the traditional birthstone for our month (yeah, I am one). This purple beauty is a type of quartz and is said to have grounding and calming properties. In fact, the ancient Greeks named it “amethystos,” which means “not intoxicated,” because they believed it could prevent drunkenness (now that’s a handy trick). From pale lilac to deep reddish purple, amethyst comes in many hues, with the deeper colors being the most coveted. So if you’re looking for a gorgeous gemstone to represent your February birthday, look no further than amethyst!

Amethyst is found throughout the world, including many parts of the United States. High quality specimens come from Siberia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Uruguay and the Far East. Most of the world’s supply of amethyst comes from South America, where it is often unearthed in mind-boggling sizes.

Amethyst is found inside large geodes, and clusters of the gem are popular with collectors. According to the St. Louis Science Center, the largest amethyst geode ever found, known as the “Empress of Uruguay,” is eleven feet tall and weighs two and a half tons. That’s nothing, however, compared to the Guinness Record holder, which is shorter in height but weighs in at over 28,000 pounds.

Amethyst Jewelry

Oh, amethyst, how you’ve dazzled us through the ages! This gemstone has been adorning jewelry for thousands of years and was once regarded as a stone fit only for royalty (talk about fancy!). With a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is considered tough enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily wear, making it perfect for all types of jewelry. In fact, amethyst jewelry has been found dating back to 2000 BC! According to the American Gemstone Society, “For many years, amethyst was held to be one of the most precious gemstones, often favored by royalty or exclusively by the clergy as a symbol for the deity of Christ. It was even held for many years in the same regard as the diamond. It wasn’t until the discovery of more abundant supplies of amethyst that it became a gemstone enjoyed by more than just the wealthiest buyers.”

Amethyst is truly a gemstone for everyone! With its ability to complement both warm and cool tones, it can be set on a variety of metals, making it a versatile choice for any jewelry lover. Whether you prefer it in its natural crystal form, polished cabochons, or faceted gems, amethyst is sure to add a touch of regal elegance to any outfit. And the best part? Thanks to its abundance, amethyst jewelry is accessible to all budgets. So go ahead, treat yourself (or someone special) to a piece of amethyst jewelry and let its tranquil beauty and royal heritage add a touch of luxury to your life!

Cover photo by Renee Kiffin on Unsplash