February Birthstone Jewellery: Essential Amethyst Guide
February’s birthstone is amethyst. Regal purple, calming to wear and easy to style, this quartz variety ranges from delicate lilac to rich, velvety tones. This guide explores colour and symbolism, how amethyst appears across eras, and the key varieties you will see in antique and vintage jewellery.
Table of Contents
- History of February’s Birthstone
- Symbolism and Colour
- Amethyst at a Glance
- Varieties and Trade Names
- Design Through the Eras
- Notable Gems and Lore
- Care in Brief
- FAQs
- You Might Also Like
- Final Thoughts
- About Ps Its Vintage
- References
History of February’s Birthstone
Amethyst has long been a favourite. The name comes from Greek for “not intoxicated” and the stone was linked with clear thinking. Romans carved intaglios and goblets. In medieval Europe it became known as the bishop’s stone and appears in church rings and royal regalia. For centuries fine Russian material was highly prized; today Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia are well known sources, and amethyst remains one of the most wearable purples in jewellery.
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Symbolism and Colour
Symbolism. Clarity, protection and calm. Many also see amethyst as a stone for creativity and balance, which suits daily wear and thoughtful gifts.
Colour. Lilac through royal purple with blue or red flashes. Jewel tones feel opulent in yellow gold. Pastel tones look airy in sterling silver and platinum. Colour zoning is common and can create pretty patterns in antique cuts.
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Amethyst at a Glance
What it is: purple quartz used as a gemstone.
Hardness: around 7 on the Mohs scale. No cleavage. Tough and friendly for everyday wear with sensible care.
Treatments: heating is common to improve or adjust colour; some irradiated material exists. Good listings disclose known treatments.
Imitations: glass and synthetic amethyst occur. Specialist testing may be needed, so buy from trusted sellers and read descriptions carefully.
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Varieties and Trade Names
Rich purple
Velvety stones with blue flashes. Elegant in clusters and solitaire rings. Historically called “Siberian” colour in the trade for deep quality tones.
Rose de France
Pale lilac to light mauve. Airy and feminine in Edwardian and mid century designs. Lovely for pendants and earrings.
Ametrine
Natural bicolour quartz that blends amethyst and citrine. Often cut to show a sharp division of purple and golden yellow. Associated with Bolivia and used in bold geometric cuts.
Cabochon and carved
Cabochons show soft glow and even colour. Antique pieces may feature carvings or intaglios that pair beautifully with lockets and signet styles.
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Design Through the Eras
Victorian. Heart lockets, seed pearl accents and gold clusters. Amethyst pairs well with warm metal tones.
Edwardian. Platinum filigree with lilac stones. Light, lace-like mounts that suit paler amethyst.
Art Nouveau. Flowing lines and nature motifs. Cabochons and carved stones in organic gold settings.
Art Deco. Step cuts, bold geometry and contrasting gems. Ametrine appears in striking rectangular stones.
Mid century. Cocktail rings with generous crowns and strong shoulders. Saturated purple looks confident in sculptural gold.
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Notable Gems and Lore
- Bishop’s rings. Amethyst features in many episcopal rings for its association with wisdom and clarity.
- Royal regalia. Deep purple has long signalled status, so amethyst appears in historic collections and ceremonial jewels.
- Goblets and seals. Romans carved vessels and signets, taking advantage of quartz’s durability and polish.
Care in Brief
Use lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush. Pat dry with a lint free cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners are often fine for amethyst, though gentle hand cleaning is the safest default if treatments or inclusions are unknown. Avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged strong sunlight. Store pieces separately to protect the polish.
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FAQs
Is amethyst good for everyday rings?
Yes with sensible care. Amethyst is around 7 on the Mohs scale and has no cleavage. Check settings periodically and avoid hard knocks.
Why do some stones look more blue or more pink?
Amethyst often shows blue or red modifiers. Lighting and cut can emphasise one or the other, which is part of its charm.
What is ametrine?
A natural bicolour quartz that mixes amethyst and citrine in one crystal. Often associated with Bolivia and popular in geometric cuts.
Is most amethyst treated?
Heating is common to adjust colour. Some irradiated material exists. Good listings disclose known treatments so you can compare like for like.
Does amethyst fade?
It is generally stable in normal wear, though prolonged strong sunlight can affect colour over time. Store jewellery away from direct heat and light.
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You Might Also Like
- Birthstones by Month: Complete Guide
- September Birthstone Jewellery: Sapphire Guide
- October Birthstone Jewellery: Opal and Tourmaline Guide
- November Birthstone Jewellery: Topaz and Citrine Guide
- December Birthstone Jewellery: Turquoise, Tanzanite and Zircon
- Jewellery Symbolism Guide
Final Thoughts
From soft lilac to regal purple, amethyst brings mood and meaning to February. Explore different tones and cuts, then choose the era and setting that feels most like you.
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About Ps Its Vintage
Ps Its Vintage is independently run and specialises in preloved, vintage and antique jewellery. Every piece is chosen for its character, quality and symbolism, with a focus on hallmarks, makers and meaningful design. Whether you are searching for a birthstone or building a collection around personal meaning, this guide is here to help you choose with confidence.
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References
- GIA — Amethyst overview and quality factors
- GIA — Quartz family and quality factors
- GIA — Ametrine information
- IGS — Amethyst properties, sources and care
