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Amethyst - February Birthstone

Did you know that amethyst ranges in colour between deep purples and lighter, pastel shades?


The reason behind such a range is that highly saturated colour is usually limited to the top of the crystal, with the rest of the crystal being near colourless.


Gemmology aside, I have a soft spot for this lovely gem and love having it as my birthstone!


Let's take a closer look at this wonderful gem.


square dark purple amethyst in white gold diamond halo ring held in hand with hot pink nails on white silk background


Let's begin with some fun facts:

  • Amethyst is a part of the quartz family (along with citrine)

  • It has been the most-prized quartz for centuries

  • The Ancient Greeks thought it had magical and medicinal properties

  • Amethyst is a popular choice for religious jewellery and royal jewels

  • It was once considered an equal to ruby, emerald and sapphire

  • Almost all amethyst on the market is eye-clean (no noticeable inclusions)

selection of amethyst rough crystals of different shape and size light and dark on white background

Source

Russia was the major source of amethyst until a new, plentiful source was discovered in Brazil in the 19th century. The latter is still one of the main suppliers.


This new discovery made amethyst less rare, more readily available and consequently, more affordable. Zambia, Argentina and Uruguay have also become significant producers of this wonderful purple gem.


Amethyst cutting and marketing centres include Germany, Thailand, China and India.

This also applies to most of other gemstones.


The city of Idar-Oberstein in Germany is known for cutting high-end stones, while India and Thailand focus on commercial-quality gemstones.



square dark purple amethyst in white gold diamond halo ring, large trilliant light amethyst white gold ring, on a small white plate with gold border, or hot pink background with hot pink red rose


Availability


Amethyst is abundant and readily available in a variety of sizes and shapes, from tiny 1mm round stones, to 5 carat+ ovals and trilliants, like below.



large trilliant light amethyst white gold ring worn on hand with hot pink nails on white silk background


February Birthstone


Amethyst is also known for the following traits:

  • blocks negative energies

  • helps to remember and understand dreams

  • gets rid of distracting thoughts

  • helps achieve peace and understanding



 

Do you know what powers your birthstone holds?


Visit my previous post What is my Birthstone? to find out!

 


Durability


In terms of hardness, amethyst scores a 7 out of 10 on Moh's scale.


With sapphires and rubies at 9 and diamonds at 10, these can scratch your garnet if not stored properly or if they rub against each other.


Although I would not recommend amethyst for engagement rings, they make a great and affordable option for large cocktail rings and other jewellery such as pendants and earrings.



rose gold and beige glass jewellery box containing hot pink red rose petals, square dark purple amethyst in white gold diamond halo ring, large trilliant light amethyst white gold ring, diamond solitaire white gold pendant and stud earrings, diamond stacking rings


 

Looking for tips on how to keep you jewellery Clean and Damage-Free?


Get my FREE jewellery cleaning guide here

 



Is Amethyst on your wishlist?


I would be delighted to hear about it!


To discuss your options, schedule a complementary, 30 minute connection call with me here






Looking for inspiration? Visit our Instagram page for more stunning jewellery ideas.


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