February
birthstone

Gem facts

Identity, color, and durability

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, ranging from pale lilac to deep purple. Its color comes from iron impurities and irradiation. It's been prized for millennia as a royal and spiritual stone.

Names in use

Purple Quartz · Bishop's Stone

Mohs hardness

7 on Mohs scale

Typical color palette

• #9966CC
• #800080
• #E6E6FA
• #4B0082

Symbolic tradition

Meanings and crystal traditions

Amethyst represents peace, stability, and inner strength. It was believed to prevent intoxication in ancient times and is associated with clarity of mind and spiritual protection.

• Crystal traditions associate amethyst with calm and clarity
• Meditation traditions connect amethyst with intuition and reflection
• Ancient Greek lore linked amethyst with sobriety
• Modern symbolic readings use amethyst as a sign of inner strength
• These interpretations are traditions, not scientific effects

Interpretation label: Personality words such as intuitive, calm, creative, spiritual, wise belong to symbolic birthstone readings. They are not traits caused by a gemstone or birth month.

Context

History and cultural variations

The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos' meaning 'not intoxicated.' Ancient Greeks and Romans wore amethyst and made drinking vessels from it, believing it would prevent drunkenness.

Variation note: Historical beliefs are presented as beliefs. A source can document a tradition without proving a physical or medical effect.

Practical guide

Jewelry care and gift ideas

1. Clean with warm soapy water
2. Avoid prolonged sun exposure (can fade)
3. Steam cleaning is generally safe
4. Store away from harder gemstones
5. Avoid sudden temperature changes

Care note: Treatments, inclusions, and settings can change safe cleaning methods. Ask a qualified jeweler when a stone's treatment history is unknown.