Amethyst is the officially recognized birthstone for February, a captivating purple variety of quartz that has held significance for millennia. However, February uniquely boasts a second birthstone: Jasper. While amethyst represents purification, wisdom, balance, and tranquility, Jasper symbolizes strength, courage, and wisdom. Both gemstones offer a rich history and distinct appeal, making February birthdays particularly special. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of both amethyst and jasper, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Amethyst’s history is deeply interwoven with mythology and religious belief. The name “amethyst” originates from the Greek amethystos, meaning “a remedy against drunkenness.” This belief stemmed from the gem’s wine-like color and the ancient Greek association with Bacchus, the god of wine. It was thought that drinking from an amethyst cup would prevent intoxication and keep the wearer clear-headed, not only in revelry but also in battle and business. Renaissance Europeans believed amethyst could calm those overwhelmed by passion.
The stone’s significance extends beyond ancient Greece. It has been dedicated to St. Valentine, the patron saint of romantic love, reportedly due to St. Valentine wearing an amethyst ring carved with Cupid’s image, solidifying its association with pure love. In biblical narratives, amethyst is believed to have been the ninth gem in the breastplate worn by Israel’s high priest. Throughout history, religious leaders have valued amethyst for its perceived power to overcome temptation.
Amethyst’s historical value was once comparable to that of diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, reflecting its rarity before the 19th-century discovery of large deposits in Brazil. Even as far back as 2000 BC, amethyst jewelry has been unearthed, demonstrating its long-standing appeal.
While Jasper’s history isn’t as extensively detailed in the provided sources, it is noted for representing strength and courage, suggesting a historical association with warriors or those seeking fortitude.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, often found forming in large, six-sided crystals within geodes. Its purple hue is a result of irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements within the quartz structure. The sources indicate that amethyst can be found globally, with significant deposits historically located in Siberia – the “Siberian” amethyst being particularly prized for its rich purple color with flashes of red and blue. However, Brazil became a major source after the 19th century, making the stone more accessible.
Jasper, in contrast, comes in a wide array of colors, including red, green, yellow, blue, and even banded varieties like “zebra” jasper (white with black stripes). The sources do not specify particular mining locations for Jasper.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst
Amethyst’s hardness on the Mohs scale is 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for various jewelry applications. Its chemical formula is SiO2 (silicon dioxide), the same as other quartz varieties. The color of amethyst ranges from light, pinkish shades to deep violet tones, with darker stones traditionally being more valued, though lavender shades, marketed as “Rose de France,” have gained popularity.
Amethyst exhibits a fascinating property: when heated, it can change color, transforming into shades of blue, yellow, green, and even red-orange.
Here's a table summarizing Amethyst's properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs Hardness | 7 |
| Color | Violet, Lavender |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Jasper
Jasper also has a Mohs hardness of 7-7.5, indicating similar durability to amethyst. Its color is highly variable, as noted previously, and it is not a single mineral but an opaque variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz. The sources do not provide a chemical formula for Jasper.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Amethyst has long been associated with intellect, temperance, and love. It was believed to possess the power to stop excessive passion and desire, making it a popular stone among religious figures. Some believe that dreaming of amethyst signifies freedom from harm.
Jasper, while less detailed in the sources, is linked to strength, courage, and wisdom.
Historically, amethyst was thought to treat skin ailments and cure tumors, according to Hildegard von Bingen, though this claim is not substantiated by modern gemological science.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is relatively resistant to scratching. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these may damage the stone.
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for Jasper, but given its similar hardness, similar cleaning methods would likely be appropriate.
February Birthstone Jewelry
The sources highlight a variety of jewelry styles featuring both amethyst and Jasper. Amethyst is showcased in pendants, rings, and bracelets, often accented with diamonds. Styles range from classic halo settings to vintage-inspired floral designs. Examples include 14K white gold amethyst and diamond halo pendants, amethyst marquise rings, and sterling silver amethyst bangles.
While specific examples of Jasper jewelry are not provided, the sources indicate that February is one of the months with two birthstones, suggesting that Jasper is also incorporated into jewelry designs.
Conclusion
Amethyst and Jasper, the birthstones of February, offer a compelling combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Amethyst, with its rich purple hues and associations with wisdom and love, has captivated people for millennia. Jasper, representing strength and courage, adds another layer of meaning to this unique birthstone pairing. Both gemstones, while differing in appearance and lore, share a similar durability, making them suitable for a wide range of jewelry designs. Whether chosen for its historical significance, metaphysical properties, or simply its aesthetic appeal, the February birthstones offer a meaningful connection to the natural world and a celebration of individuality.