Amethyst is recognized as the birthstone for February, a distinction it has held for centuries. This captivating purple gemstone boasts a rich history intertwined with royalty, spirituality, and enduring symbolism. From ancient jewelry to modern adornments, amethyst continues to be prized for its beauty and believed metaphysical properties. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, and cultural significance of amethyst, drawing upon available historical and gemological information.
History and Lore
The use of amethyst dates back remarkably far, with archaeological evidence indicating its presence in jewelry as early as 3100 BC, discovered in Minos, within the Aegean Sea. Early examples include cabochon cuts set in gold bezels, a style that remains popular today. In ancient Egypt, amethyst held a place of prominence, appearing in the tombs of Amenemhet II (1919-1885 BC) as a scarab beetle crafted from the gem and set in gold, and also found adorning King Tutankhamun. Cleopatra herself was known to wear an amethyst ring carved with the image of Mithras, a Persian god, demonstrating the stone’s appeal to powerful figures.
The association of amethyst with royalty extends into more recent history. The oldest of the British Crown Jewels features an amethyst, worn by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century. Queen Elizabeth I also possessed an amethyst necklace, and the modern coronation regalia continues to incorporate amethysts, signifying the gem’s enduring connection to power and prestige.
Catherine the Great of Russia was a devoted admirer of amethyst. During her reign, amethyst was primarily sourced from Brazil and thus accessible only to the wealthy elite and royalty. She commissioned miners to search for amethyst within the Ural Mountains, and significant deposits were discovered in 1799, just three years after her death.
Historically, the vibrant purple hue of amethyst contributed to its value. In ancient times, creating purple dye for fabrics was a difficult and expensive process, leading to the color becoming synonymous with wealth, nobility, and royal status. When amethyst was rare, it was considered a precious gem alongside rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, and was sometimes valued even higher than diamonds.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), and its purple coloration arises from trace amounts of iron and other minerals within its crystal structure. These gemstones are commonly found in igneous and volcanic rocks, particularly basalt, but can also occur in metamorphic and sedimentary formations. Amethyst crystals often form within geodes, where they grow inside hollow rocks, creating stunning crystalline mosaics alongside other quartz varieties like citrine and prasiolite.
While the sources are not detailed beyond historical mentions, the provided texts indicate Brazil and Russia (specifically the Ural Mountains) as historically significant locations for amethyst mining.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst is a precious variety of quartz. Its hardness measures 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear. The color range of amethyst is quite diverse, spanning from the palest lilac to a deep, rich purple-violet. Some amethyst crystals exhibit hints of red or blue within their purple hue. Typically, the color is most concentrated at the top of the crystal, where iron is most abundant, gradually lightening towards the base.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, amethyst has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In Medieval times, it was believed that garnets could protect wearers from bad dreams and poisons, and were thought to cure depression, relieve fever, and alleviate inflammatory diseases. More recently, amethyst is said to promote love, romantic passion, sensuality, and intimacy. It is also believed to signify eternal friendship, trust, loyalty, and enduring affection.
Astrologically, amethyst is thought to eliminate negative feelings and instill greater self-confidence and mental clarity, promoting creative thinking and peace of mind.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is a durable gemstone suitable for a variety of jewelry settings. However, like all gemstones, it benefits from proper care. Amethyst can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these may damage the stone or affect its color.
The Evolution of Birthstone Lists
The concept of birthstones has evolved over time. While the association of gemstones with specific months dates back to biblical times and the twelve tribes of Israel, the modern practice of assigning a single gem to each month is a more recent development. The first list of “traditional birthstones” originated in Poland during the 16th to 18th centuries. In the United States, the National Association of Jewelers released a list of “modern birthstones” in 1912, leading to the dual lists that are often seen today. The modern list includes spinel, citrine, and tanzanite as more recent additions. Individuals often choose from either list, selecting stones that appeal to them personally, or opting for traditional gems due to their affordability or availability.
Conclusion
Amethyst, the captivating purple birthstone of February, holds a prominent place in history, lore, and gemology. From its ancient origins in Egyptian tombs and royal regalia to its modern-day appeal as a symbol of peace and clarity, amethyst continues to enchant and inspire. Its durability, beautiful color variations, and rich symbolism make it a cherished gemstone for generations to come. The enduring legacy of amethyst is a testament to the timeless allure of nature’s creations and the enduring human fascination with the beauty and power of gemstones.