Amethyst, the captivating purple variety of quartz, holds the esteemed position of birthstone for February. Revered for millennia, this gemstone has adorned royalty, inspired legends, and been attributed with a range of beneficial properties, from preventing intoxication to promoting serenity. Its rich history, coupled with its beautiful hues and relative accessibility, makes amethyst a popular choice for jewelry and a meaningful symbol for those born in the second month of the year. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The story of amethyst is deeply interwoven with human history and cultural beliefs. Evidence suggests its use dates back to at least 3100 BC, with examples found in jewelry from Minos in the Aegean Sea. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, valued amethyst highly, as evidenced by its presence in the tombs of Amenemhet II (1919-1885 BC) and King Tutankhamun. Cleopatra herself was known to wear an amethyst ring carved with the image of Mithras, a Persian god.
Throughout Europe, amethyst continued to be a favored gem among royalty and the elite. The oldest piece in the British Crown Jewels is an amethyst worn by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century, and subsequent monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth I, incorporated amethysts into their collections. Catherine the Great of Russia, a devoted admirer of the gem, actively sought out amethyst deposits in the Ural Mountains in the late 18th century, following the discovery of Brazilian sources that initially limited access to the stone to the wealthy.
The name “amethyst” itself originates from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “a remedy against drunkenness.” This belief stemmed from the gem’s wine-like color and the ancient Greek custom of drinking wine from amethyst goblets, or even adding powdered amethyst to their drinks, in the hope of avoiding intoxication. Beyond preventing overindulgence, amethyst was also thought to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted in both battle and business. Renaissance Europeans believed the stone could calm lovers overwhelmed by passion. The association with St. Valentine, the patron saint of love, further solidifies amethyst’s connection to the month of February, with legends suggesting he wore an amethyst ring carved with Cupid’s likeness.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, a widely abundant mineral composed of silicon dioxide. Its distinctive purple color arises from the presence of iron impurities and natural irradiation within the quartz crystal structure. The intensity of the color depends on the concentration of iron and the duration of irradiation.
Historically, significant amethyst deposits were found in Brazil, Russia, and locations within Europe. The discovery of large deposits in Brazil made the gemstone more accessible, moving it from the realm of exclusive royal possessions to a gem enjoyed by a wider audience. While specific mining locations beyond Brazil and Russia are not detailed in the provided sources, the gem’s widespread presence in ancient artifacts suggests it was sourced from various regions throughout history.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst exhibits several key gemological properties that contribute to its appeal and durability. Its color ranges from pale lilac to deep reddish purple, with deeply saturated hues being the most prized. The value of a stone is largely determined by the intensity and evenness of its purple coloration. Stones with brown or bronze tinges generally have lower values. Darker tones are typically favored by gem buyers.
Amethyst measures 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear. This hardness allows it to be cut into a variety of shapes and sizes, with brilliant rounds and ovals being popular choices to maximize its color. The gem is translucent, meaning light passes through it, but it is not transparent like a diamond.
The sources do not provide information on amethyst’s chemical formula, refractive index, or specific gravity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, amethyst has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Beyond its association with preventing drunkenness and promoting clear thinking, amethyst is believed to enhance fortitude and serenity. In Yogic traditions, it is linked to the Crown Chakra, located at the top of the head, and is thought to facilitate spiritual awareness.
Amethyst is considered a stone of happiness and harmony, encouraging calm and clear thinking, which, in turn, can lead to prosperity and personal power. It is also seen as a stone of purification, aligning with the introspective and renewing energy of February, a month marking the transition between winter and spring. Some modern sources suggest amethyst is a lucky stone, bringing more harmony into one’s life, though this is not widely accepted in formal gemology.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is relatively durable and suitable for a wide range of jewelry settings. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance. Amethyst can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. It is also advisable to store amethyst jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
Amethyst, the February birthstone, is a gem steeped in history, symbolism, and beauty. From its ancient origins adorning royalty to its modern-day appeal as a captivating gemstone, amethyst continues to fascinate and inspire. Its association with clarity, calm, and spiritual awareness, combined with its durability and relative affordability, makes it a cherished gem for those born in February and a timeless addition to any jewelry collection. The enduring legacy of amethyst is a testament to its enduring allure and its place as a truly remarkable gemstone.