February belongs to amethyst, a gemstone that comes in just about every shade of purple you could want. Some stones are a light, delicate lavender, while others have a deep violet color. Both are genuine amethyst, and each has its own charm.
From lavender to violet
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz. Its color comes from natural changes involving iron within the crystal. That’s why one amethyst can look pale and airy while another has a much richer purple tone.
The lighter shades look especially pretty in simple silver designs, where the color has room to shine. Deeper amethyst makes a beautiful accent too. It’s really a matter of which purple feels most like you.
A little history
People have enjoyed amethyst for thousands of years, using it in jewelry, decorative carvings and treasured objects. Today it’s often associated with thoughtfulness, calm and clarity. Those are traditional meanings, but they give the stone an extra personal connection for a February birthday.
Keeping amethyst lovely
Amethyst has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it a good option for earrings and pendants. For everyday care, gently wipe it with a soft cloth. Mild soap and lukewarm water work well when appropriate for the entire piece, and storing it away from prolonged intense sunlight helps preserve its color.
Learn more about its color, origins and care in the Amethyst Gemstone Guide.
