Amethyst:  February's Birth Stone

Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February and the traditional anniversary gemstone for the sixth of marriage.  Amethysts are very reasonably priced but once were more valuable than diamonds.  It is a member of the quartz family and naturally occurs within rocks.  They are mined in Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, Zambia and the mountains of Russia.

February's birthstone: Amethyst
Birthstone powers: Brings peace and calm to your life
Alternative Birthstone: Bloodstone

All Amethyst Jewellery	Earrings	Necklaces	Bracelets	Rings

American amethysts are mined in Maine, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Montana and Colorado. Amethyst from Maine is usually dark with North Carolina amethyst having a bluish tint unique to that area.  If exposed to strong sunlight for a long period of time, amethysts can lighten,  If heated to Centigrade, the colour changes to dark yellow or reddish brown.  The name of this gemstone then becomes citrine and are more expensive and richly coloured than natural citrines.

Ideally deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes, amethysts generally range in hue from pale lilac to nearly black purple. Since purple has always been the colour of royalty, amethysts abound in the ornaments of in the British Crown Jewels and in the adornments of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, as well. They have been found in ruins dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning royal jewellery, scepters, and crowns.

The intense colour of the amethyst appealed to the early monarchs, possibly as symbol of their position of power. Purple dye was once scarce and expensive, so it was reserved for the garments of royalty, and the colour came to symbolize power and status.

Amethyst an Ancient Sober Gem

The Greeks believed that whoever wore an amethyst or drank from an amethyst cup would not become intoxicated.  Amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos", meaning sober and is linked to the god of wine.  If wine is served in an amethyst goblet, this should prevent overindulgence (according to Greek legend, anyway).  If you ever feel that you are "drunk" on love’s passion then an amethyst should sober you up.

Even today, amethyst is considered a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviours. In general, the gemstone is believed to be a calming, tranquil influence that symbolizes peace.

A Spiritual Amethyst

Amethyst is symbolic of piety, spirituality, and a devotion to God. The rich purple gemstones are used worldwide to decorate churches and crosses used in religious ceremony, and they are often found in the rings and on the rosaries worn by priests and bishops.

It is also believed that amethysts bring on pleasant dreams because they allow you to "channel" positive universal energy.  Place an amethyst under your pillow if you would like to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep and pleasant dreams.

Next:  Aquamarine: March Birthstone

Adapted from an article by Sam Serio, writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. Learn How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off. This informative Special Report reveals little-known facts and insider trade secrets that many jewelers would prefer you didn’t know. To get your FREE copy please go to http://www.morninglightjewelry.com.