The February birthstone, amethyst, holds a prominent place in both traditional gemology and contemporary jewelry design. While historically revered for its regal purple hue and association with royalty, amethyst has found a modern expression in the popular “shaker necklace” style. This article explores the history, availability, and appeal of amethyst, particularly as it is featured in these dynamic and visually captivating pieces of jewelry. The sources primarily focus on the use of amethyst within shaker necklaces, offering insights into their construction, symbolism, and gifting potential.
History and Lore
Amethyst’s history stretches back millennia. The name itself originates from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “non-intoxicated,” as ancient Greeks believed the stone could protect against drunkenness. This belief stemmed from the stone’s visual similarity to wine. Throughout history, amethyst has been associated with royalty and ecclesiastical power, often adorning the robes and jewelry of bishops and kings.
The sources do not delve deeply into the ancient history of amethyst beyond its identification as the February birthstone. However, they highlight its continued relevance as a gemstone chosen for personal and commemorative jewelry. The modern context emphasizes its use in shaker necklaces, a style that imbues the stone with a sense of movement and playful elegance.
The Shaker Necklace: A Modern Interpretation
The “shaker necklace” is a relatively recent innovation in jewelry design. These necklaces feature a pendant encased in watch glass, filled with small, loose gemstones – often birthstones – that create a gentle rattling sound when moved. This design, popularized by artists like Catherine Weitzman, evokes a sense of tranquility and natural movement, reminiscent of tropical rain or shifting sands.
The sources indicate that these necklaces are crafted using either 18k gold vermeil or recycled sterling silver. The gemstones within are semi-precious crystals, selected to correspond with the recipient’s birth month. The pendant itself measures approximately 21mm and is suspended from an 18-inch chain. The design incorporates gently carved branches around the casing, further connecting the piece to nature.
Gemological Properties
While the provided sources do not detail the full spectrum of amethyst’s gemological properties, they confirm its status as a genuine, earth-mined gemstone. Amethyst is a variety of quartz (silicon dioxide) and is characterized by its purple coloration, which is due to iron impurities and natural irradiation.
The sources do not provide information on amethyst’s hardness, refractive index, or specific gravity. However, as a variety of quartz, amethyst typically registers a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it relatively durable for everyday wear. Clarity can range from transparent to translucent, and color saturation varies from pale lilac to deep, rich violet.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources touch upon the symbolic significance of the shaker necklace and the gemstones it contains. The crystals within are described as representing “a wish or unforgettable moment,” imbuing the jewelry with personal meaning. This aligns with broader metaphysical beliefs surrounding amethyst, which is often associated with peace, tranquility, and spiritual awareness.
The shaker necklace format adds another layer of symbolism. The movement of the stones is seen as representing the passage of time, the fluidity of life, and the constant flow of energy. The gentle rattling sound is described as soothing and meditative, further enhancing the stone’s calming properties.
The sources also suggest the necklaces are appropriate for various gifting occasions, including birthdays, Mother’s Day, push presents (celebrating a newborn’s birth), and wedding anniversaries. The ability to customize the necklace with the birthstone of the recipient or a significant date adds to its sentimental value.
Applications in Jewelry Design
The sources showcase a variety of designs incorporating amethyst and the shaker necklace concept. Beyond the standard shaker pendant, amethyst is featured in other jewelry pieces, including rings, earrings, and bracelets. Designs range from minimalist settings, such as simple bezel necklaces, to more elaborate pieces featuring diamond accents and intricate pave work.
One example is a multi-shape aquamarine and diamond shaker necklace, demonstrating the versatility of the design. Another is a pave aquamarine teardrop and marquise diamond shakers drop earrings. The sources also mention the availability of custom jewelry, including pendants, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, crafted from various metals and gemstones.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for amethyst shaker necklaces. However, based on the materials used – sterling silver, gold vermeil, and quartz – general guidelines can be inferred. Sterling silver should be polished regularly with a silver polishing cloth to prevent tarnishing. Gold vermeil, being a base metal coated with gold, requires gentle cleaning with a mild soap and water solution.
Amethyst itself is relatively durable but should be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, as they can potentially damage the gemstones or the settings. Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and warm, soapy water is recommended. Given the loose nature of the stones within the shaker pendant, it’s advisable to inspect the setting periodically to ensure the watch glass casing remains secure.
Market Availability and Pricing
The sources indicate that amethyst shaker necklaces are available from a variety of retailers, including Boscov’s, Maejean Vintage, It’s Thoughtful, Valla Jewelry, Jacquie Aiche, and Catherine Weitzman. Pricing varies depending on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the retailer.
Valla Jewelry offers a 14k white gold diamond shaker necklace with 1.85ct diamonds. Catherine Weitzman’s small birthstone shaker necklace is available from $138.00. Maejean Vintage offers custom shaker lockets, while Boscov’s features a simulated amethyst shaker necklace and earring set. The availability of custom designs allows for personalized pieces tailored to individual preferences and budgets.
A Table of Available Gemstones for Custom Shaker Lockets (Based on Source [2])
| Gemstone | Birth Month |
|---|---|
| Garnet | January |
| Amethyst | February |
| Aquamarine | March |
| White Topaz | April |
| Emerald | May |
| Pearl | June |
| Ruby | July |
| Peridot | August |
| Sapphire | September |
| Opal | October |
| Citrine | November |
| Turquoise | December |
Conclusion
Amethyst, the birthstone of February, continues to captivate with its beauty and symbolism. The modern interpretation of this gemstone within the shaker necklace format offers a unique and enchanting way to celebrate personal connections and cherished moments. These necklaces, crafted with care and attention to detail, represent a harmonious blend of ancient lore and contemporary design. The gentle movement and soothing sound of the stones within serve as a constant reminder of life’s fluidity and the enduring power of personal meaning. The versatility of amethyst, combined with the customizable nature of the shaker necklace, ensures its continued popularity as a treasured piece of jewelry for years to come.