February birthstone

Amethyst: the February birthstone

Amethyst symbolizes clarity, calm, sobriety and inner strength. Its color, history, care, value and where it comes from.

Birth month: February
Hardness: 7 Mohs
Anniversary: 6th
Sources: Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Bolivia and the US (Arizona's Four Peaks)

Color

Ranges from pale lilac ("Rose de France") to deep royal purple with red flashes ("Siberian").

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History & lore

In Greek, amethystos means "not intoxicated." The Greeks believed the stone kept the wearer clear-headed, so they carved wine cups from it. Purple was a royal color, so amethyst set crowns and bishops' rings for centuries. It was as valuable as ruby until huge Brazilian deposits were found in the 1800s.

Care

Fine for everyday wear. Keep it out of long, direct sunlight, which can fade the color.

Value

Very affordable: quality amethyst often costs $20–$50 per carat, so large statement pieces stay within reach.

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Questions, answered

What month is amethyst the birthstone for?

Amethyst is the February birthstone.

What does amethyst symbolize?

Amethyst symbolizes clarity, calm, sobriety and inner strength.

How hard is amethyst?

Amethyst is 7 on the Mohs scale. Fine for everyday wear. Keep it out of long, direct sunlight, which can fade the color.

Where is amethyst found?

Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Bolivia and the US (Arizona's Four Peaks).