Amethyst holds the esteemed position as the birthstone for February, a gemstone deeply associated with tranquility, peace, and protective energies. Throughout history and into modern times, this captivating purple variety of quartz has been cherished for its beauty and the symbolic meanings attributed to it. This article will explore the history, origins, gemological properties, and significance of amethyst, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Amethyst has a long and storied past, with its use dating back to ancient civilizations. Sources indicate its association with protective and calming qualities, making it a thoughtful and elegant gift for those born in February. The gemstone’s appeal is enduring, as evidenced by its continued popularity in contemporary jewelry designs. While specific details regarding the earliest uses are not provided in the available sources, the consistent theme of amethyst as a symbol of peace and intuition suggests a deeply rooted historical significance.
The sources highlight the gemstone’s modern role as a focal point in February celebrations, and a cherished keepsake. This suggests a continuation of ancient traditions, adapted for contemporary gifting practices. The enduring appeal of amethyst is also reflected in its frequent use in personalized jewelry, such as necklaces, allowing individuals to connect with the stone’s symbolism on a personal level.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of amethyst, nor do they specify particular mining locations. However, they do confirm that amethyst is a variety of quartz. The sources focus on the finished product – the gemstone as it appears in jewelry – rather than its origins.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst, as a variety of quartz, exhibits specific gemological characteristics. The sources describe amethyst as displaying “deep purple hues,” which is its defining color characteristic. The color is a key factor in its appeal and value.
Several sources provide details regarding jewelry construction using amethyst. Ekleel Jewelry specifies amethyst as a “natural amethyst” with a “round brilliant” shape and size ranging from 1.80/3.00mm. They also mention the use of a “bezel” setting, and the presence of accompanying natural diamonds, with an average color of ‘G’ and clarity of ‘VS’. The diamond carat total weight ranges from 0.14/0.52. These details illustrate the craftsmanship involved in setting amethyst within fine jewelry.
Honeywillow describes the amethyst used in their necklaces as a “tiny” 1.5mm birthstone. Sarah Cameron Jewelry features a 6mm amethyst gemstone charm. La Côte Club provides pendant dimensions of .21" x .21" (5.3 mm x 5.3 mm). These varying sizes demonstrate the versatility of amethyst in jewelry design, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
Regarding materials, La Côte Club details the use of sterling silver (.925) and 18k gold vermeil, layered to a thickness of at least 2.5 microns over sterling silver, ensuring durability and a luxurious appearance. They also specify that their sterling silver pieces are stamped with “925” to signify authenticity. Kendra Scott offers jewelry in 18k Gold Plated Vermeil, Gold, Silver, and Sterling Silver.
The sources do not provide information on hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition.
A table summarizing the amethyst properties mentioned in the sources is provided below:
| Property | Detail | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Deep Purple | 1, 2, 4 |
| Shape/Cut | Round Brilliant | 6 |
| Size | 1.5mm - 6mm | 5, 7 |
| Setting | Bezel, Pavé | 6 |
| Metal | Sterling Silver, Gold Vermeil, Gold, Silver | 3, 4, 6, 7 |
| Diamond Clarity | VS | 6 |
| Diamond Color | G | 6 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Amethyst is consistently linked to positive symbolism. Sources emphasize its association with “clarity and inner peace,” “protective and calming qualities,” and the promotion of “peace and intuition.” These attributes contribute to its popularity as a February birthstone and a meaningful gift. The connection to tranquility and serenity suggests that amethyst has been valued not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its perceived ability to foster emotional well-being.
Honeywillow connects amethyst to the February birth flower, the violet, further enriching the stone’s symbolic meaning within the context of the birth month.
Care and Cleaning
La Côte Club provides specific guidance on caring for amethyst jewelry. They recommend removing jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising, and avoiding contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and cleaning products. They advise storing each piece individually in the provided pouch and cleaning regularly with a soft, dry cloth. They also recommend using their polishing cloth to maintain shine, cautioning against over-polishing to preserve the gold vermeil plating. These instructions are based on the properties of the metals used in the jewelry (sterling silver and gold vermeil) and aim to protect the finish and longevity of the piece.
Conclusion
Amethyst, the February birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history and symbolism. Its captivating purple hue, combined with its associations with peace, clarity, and protection, has made it a cherished stone for centuries. The available sources highlight its enduring appeal in modern jewelry, with a range of designs and materials used to showcase its beauty. Proper care, as outlined by La Côte Club, will ensure that amethyst jewelry remains a treasured possession for years to come. The stone’s continued relevance as a birthstone and a symbol of positive energy solidifies its significance in both the gemological world and the realm of personal meaning.