Looking for the ideal gift to celebrate a February birthday? Look no further than amethyst birthstone jewelry. Worn by kings and queens, this purple gemstone has been associated with royalty for centuries, and its deep, rich color is just as popular today. As well as the birthstone for February, amethyst is also used to mark a sixth wedding anniversary. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful jewelry gift for someone you love or are simply drawn to this beautiful purple hue, here’s everything you need to know about the February birthstone.
What is the February birthstone?
The February birthstone is amethyst, a semi-precious gemstone that’s known for its rich purple color. Both beautiful and symbolic, amethyst jewelry makes a thoughtful gift for anyone born in this month. As well as taking center stage in custom birthstone jewelry, amethyst can also be used to add another layer of meaning to your engagement or wedding ring.
What is amethyst?
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Found in a spectrum of shades ranging from pale lavender to deep violet, it’s the most popular and highly valued gem variety of quartz thanks to its vivid hue, which has made amethyst a favorite gemstone in royal circles throughout history.
Amethyst is formed as crystal linings inside hollow rocks and cavities, particularly in volcanic environments. The signature purple color is produced when iron impurities in the crystal structure are exposed to natural radiation from the surrounding rocks.
Where are amethysts from?
Today, amethysts come from different countries around the world, including Russia, Brazil, Zambia, Bolivia, Mexico and the United States. It’s also found in South Korea, where amethyst is considered the national gemstone.
In ancient times, amethyst was mined at Wadi el-Hudi in Egypt and was highly prized by the pharaohs. More recently, Russia was the main source of amethyst. Until the 1800s, amethyst was a rare gemstone that commanded a high price, putting it on a level with sapphire, ruby and emerald. In the Victorian era, however, deposits were discovered in Brazil, making amethyst jewelry more widely accessible.
What does amethyst symbolize?
Amethyst symbolizes sobriety. The name comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not drunk” – inspired, no doubt, by the gemstone’s resemblance to the reddish-purple color of wine. As a result, it was thought to help the wearer keep a clear head. Amethyst is also associated with royalty, again thanks to its regal purple color, and has been worn by everyone from the Ancient Egyptian pharaohs to Catherine the Great and Queen Victoria. Sadly, tales of St Valentine wearing an amethyst ring engraved with an image of Cupid are difficult to verify but it does lend a romantic quality to the February birthstone.
What to look for when buying amethyst jewelry
Whether you’re keen to try on amethyst pieces in-store or looking to buy amethyst jewelry online, the quality of the gemstone is a great place to start. Color is key: the most sought-after amethysts are purple in hue and show an even color throughout. An amethyst with an AAA quality rating will have a stronger color and fewer inclusions than one with an A or AA grade. Unlike some other gemstones, the price of an amethyst doesn’t leap up dramatically with its carat weight, so it lends itself well to statement styles.
What is birthstone jewelry?
Quite simply, birthstone jewelry features the gemstone associated with the wearer’s birth month: garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March and so on. You might choose to highlight the birthstone in a solitaire pendant or ring, or team it with diamonds in a halo or side stone design. Incorporating a birthstone into a piece of jewelry is a lovely way to imbue it with deeper meaning – and it’s not just for birthdays. A birthstone anniversary gift is a personal piece that your partner will treasure for years to come.
Birthstones also have a symbolism that extends beyond the month of the year. Amethysts, for example, are said to represent clarity and sobriety, while emeralds – the birthstone for May – are thought to symbolize growth and new beginnings. Whether you’re looking for a personalized birthstone gift or a colorful new addition to your own collection, birthstone jewelry has a place in every jewelry box.
Popular amethyst jewelry styles
At Austen & Blake, you’ll find a wide variety of amethyst jewelry pieces and February birthstone gift ideas. Our designs include everything from classic amethyst pendants to vintage-style amethyst rings and bold amethyst earrings with sparkling diamond halos. Take a closer look at some of our most popular styles.
Amethyst rings
Whether you’re planning on stacking amethyst rings together or seeking a statement ring to wear solo, our amethyst rings have something to suit every style. The collection includes amethyst engagement rings that add a personal element to your story: if you or your partner were born in February, you can choose from solitaire, side stone and halo rings set with purple amethysts to add a little extra meaning to your ring. Or make a statement with our Elvera ring. Featuring a 7mm round amethyst with a smaller diamond at either side, this bold three-stone ring is one of our most popular designs.
Amethyst earrings
Amethyst earrings are perfect for introducing a pop of color to your look, and our collection at Austen & Blake has a pair for any occasion. Pared-back amethyst stud earrings are a classic option for a can’t-go-wrong birthstone birthday gift, while diamond-set hoops with amethyst drops will bring drama to eveningwear outfits. Looking for contemporary birthstone earrings you can wear every day? Our bestselling Winton earrings feature emerald cut amethysts with two small diamonds at the corners to create a modern, geometric design with a little extra sparkle.
Amethyst bracelets
If you’re looking for February birthstone gift ideas, turn to our amethyst bracelets for inspiration. Designs at Austen & Blake include classic tennis bracelets with a line of uniform round amethysts, as well as amethyst bracelets that alternate these purple gemstones with sparkling diamonds all the way around. Or why not celebrate a February birthday with the Trio bracelet, one of our most enduring styles? With a round amethyst and two small diamonds in a prong setting on a delicate chain, it’s a meaningful piece of jewelry for everyday wear.
Amethyst necklaces
Customized with your choice of precious metal, an amethyst necklace from Austen & Blake makes the perfect personalized birthstone gift. Our collection includes solitaire and halo pendants that highlight a variety of different gemstone shapes, from classic round to pear, oval and emerald cut amethysts. Whether you’re seeking modern, minimalist amethyst jewelry or something more ornate inspired by vintage designs, you’re bound to find something you love. One of our most popular styles, the elegant Aline pendant is a great place to start. This graceful pendant features a round amethyst in a curving semi-bezel setting to put a new twist on a classic design.
Is amethyst expensive?
Amethyst is considered to be a relatively affordable gemstone because of its abundance. Once a rarity – with prices to match – it’s now found all over the world, bringing it within reach of a wider market. As with any gemstone, the cost of an amethyst will depend on its quality, with color, clarity and saturation playing a large part in determining its overall value. In general, though, amethyst is not expensive when compared to precious gemstones such as ruby. As a result, it’s a popular choice for meaningful birthstone jewelry gifts.
How to care for amethyst
With a Mohs hardness score of 7, amethyst is durable enough for jewelry that you wear every day. Follow our tips to care for your amethyst earrings, pendants and rings.
- Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause the color of amethyst to fade over time, so make sure to store your jewelry in a cool, dark place
- As with all fine jewelry, harsh chemicals such as bleach or chlorine can damage your amethyst. Remove your jewelry before swimming, using cleaning products or applying lotion or fragrance.
- When it comes to cleaning your amethyst pieces, take it gently: mix warm water with mild detergent and clean with a soft brush before leaving your jewelry to dry thoroughly.
Head over to our education center to find out more.
How to store amethyst jewelry
To keep your amethyst jewelry looking its best, store each piece separately in a cool, dark place. Because amethyst has a score of 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it can be scratched or damaged by harder gemstones such as diamond. We recommend storing each piece of jewelry individually in its own soft pouch.
A final thought
Inspired to explore the birthstone for February? At Austen & Blake, you’ll find a wide range of luxury amethyst jewelry that showcases this rich purple gemstone to perfection. From symbolic amethyst rings to chic and minimalist earrings and everyday necklaces, our collection has a birthstone jewelry gift for anyone celebrating a milestone in February. Explore our selection or get in touch with our Jewelry Experts for help in finding the perfect present.
Shop our collection of amethyst jewelry now!
link copied
Request a virtual appointment
Looking for the ideal gift to celebrate a February birthday? Look no further than amethyst birthstone jewelry. Worn by kings and queens, this purple gemstone has been associated with royalty for centuries, and its deep, rich color is just as popular today. As well as the birthstone for February, amethyst is also used to mark a sixth wedding anniversary. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful jewelry gift for someone you love or are simply drawn to this beautiful purple hue, here’s everything you need to know about the February birthstone.
What is the February birthstone?
The February birthstone is amethyst, a semi-precious gemstone that’s known for its rich purple color. Both beautiful and symbolic, amethyst jewelry makes a thoughtful gift for anyone born in this month. As well as taking center stage in custom birthstone jewelry, amethyst can also be used to add another layer of meaning to your engagement or wedding ring.
What is amethyst?
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Found in a spectrum of shades ranging from pale lavender to deep violet, it’s the most popular and highly valued gem variety of quartz thanks to its vivid hue, which has made amethyst a favorite gemstone in royal circles throughout history.
Amethyst is formed as crystal linings inside hollow rocks and cavities, particularly in volcanic environments. The signature purple color is produced when iron impurities in the crystal structure are exposed to natural radiation from the surrounding rocks.
Where are amethysts from?
Today, amethysts come from different countries around the world, including Russia, Brazil, Zambia, Bolivia, Mexico and the United States. It’s also found in South Korea, where amethyst is considered the national gemstone.
In ancient times, amethyst was mined at Wadi el-Hudi in Egypt and was highly prized by the pharaohs. More recently, Russia was the main source of amethyst. Until the 1800s, amethyst was a rare gemstone that commanded a high price, putting it on a level with sapphire, ruby and emerald. In the Victorian era, however, deposits were discovered in Brazil, making amethyst jewelry more widely accessible.
What does amethyst symbolize?
Amethyst symbolizes sobriety. The name comes from the Greek amethystos, meaning “not drunk” – inspired, no doubt, by the gemstone’s resemblance to the reddish-purple color of wine. As a result, it was thought to help the wearer keep a clear head. Amethyst is also associated with royalty, again thanks to its regal purple color, and has been worn by everyone from the Ancient Egyptian pharaohs to Catherine the Great and Queen Victoria. Sadly, tales of St Valentine wearing an amethyst ring engraved with an image of Cupid are difficult to verify but it does lend a romantic quality to the February birthstone.
What to look for when buying amethyst jewelry
Whether you’re keen to try on amethyst pieces in-store or looking to buy amethyst jewelry online, the quality of the gemstone is a great place to start. Color is key: the most sought-after amethysts are purple in hue and show an even color throughout. An amethyst with an AAA quality rating will have a stronger color and fewer inclusions than one with an A or AA grade. Unlike some other gemstones, the price of an amethyst doesn’t leap up dramatically with its carat weight, so it lends itself well to statement styles.
What is birthstone jewelry?
Quite simply, birthstone jewelry features the gemstone associated with the wearer’s birth month: garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March and so on. You might choose to highlight the birthstone in a solitaire pendant or ring, or team it with diamonds in a halo or side stone design. Incorporating a birthstone into a piece of jewelry is a lovely way to imbue it with deeper meaning – and it’s not just for birthdays. A birthstone anniversary gift is a personal piece that your partner will treasure for years to come.
Birthstones also have a symbolism that extends beyond the month of the year. Amethysts, for example, are said to represent clarity and sobriety, while emeralds – the birthstone for May – are thought to symbolize growth and new beginnings. Whether you’re looking for a personalized birthstone gift or a colorful new addition to your own collection, birthstone jewelry has a place in every jewelry box.
Popular amethyst jewelry styles
At Austen & Blake, you’ll find a wide variety of amethyst jewelry pieces and February birthstone gift ideas. Our designs include everything from classic amethyst pendants to vintage-style amethyst rings and bold amethyst earrings with sparkling diamond halos. Take a closer look at some of our most popular styles.
Amethyst rings
Whether you’re planning on stacking amethyst rings together or seeking a statement ring to wear solo, our amethyst rings have something to suit every style. The collection includes amethyst engagement rings that add a personal element to your story: if you or your partner were born in February, you can choose from solitaire, side stone and halo rings set with purple amethysts to add a little extra meaning to your ring. Or make a statement with our Elvera ring. Featuring a 7mm round amethyst with a smaller diamond at either side, this bold three-stone ring is one of our most popular designs.
Amethyst earrings
Amethyst earrings are perfect for introducing a pop of color to your look, and our collection at Austen & Blake has a pair for any occasion. Pared-back amethyst stud earrings are a classic option for a can’t-go-wrong birthstone birthday gift, while diamond-set hoops with amethyst drops will bring drama to eveningwear outfits. Looking for contemporary birthstone earrings you can wear every day? Our bestselling Winton earrings feature emerald cut amethysts with two small diamonds at the corners to create a modern, geometric design with a little extra sparkle.
Amethyst bracelets
If you’re looking for February birthstone gift ideas, turn to our amethyst bracelets for inspiration. Designs at Austen & Blake include classic tennis bracelets with a line of uniform round amethysts, as well as amethyst bracelets that alternate these purple gemstones with sparkling diamonds all the way around. Or why not celebrate a February birthday with the Trio bracelet, one of our most enduring styles? With a round amethyst and two small diamonds in a prong setting on a delicate chain, it’s a meaningful piece of jewelry for everyday wear.
Amethyst necklaces
Customized with your choice of precious metal, an amethyst necklace from Austen & Blake makes the perfect personalized birthstone gift. Our collection includes solitaire and halo pendants that highlight a variety of different gemstone shapes, from classic round to pear, oval and emerald cut amethysts. Whether you’re seeking modern, minimalist amethyst jewelry or something more ornate inspired by vintage designs, you’re bound to find something you love. One of our most popular styles, the elegant Aline pendant is a great place to start. This graceful pendant features a round amethyst in a curving semi-bezel setting to put a new twist on a classic design.
Is amethyst expensive?
Amethyst is considered to be a relatively affordable gemstone because of its abundance. Once a rarity – with prices to match – it’s now found all over the world, bringing it within reach of a wider market. As with any gemstone, the cost of an amethyst will depend on its quality, with color, clarity and saturation playing a large part in determining its overall value. In general, though, amethyst is not expensive when compared to precious gemstones such as ruby. As a result, it’s a popular choice for meaningful birthstone jewelry gifts.
How to care for amethyst
With a Mohs hardness score of 7, amethyst is durable enough for jewelry that you wear every day. Follow our tips to care for your amethyst earrings, pendants and rings.
Head over to our education center to find out more.
How to store amethyst jewelry
To keep your amethyst jewelry looking its best, store each piece separately in a cool, dark place. Because amethyst has a score of 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it can be scratched or damaged by harder gemstones such as diamond. We recommend storing each piece of jewelry individually in its own soft pouch.
A final thought
Inspired to explore the birthstone for February? At Austen & Blake, you’ll find a wide range of luxury amethyst jewelry that showcases this rich purple gemstone to perfection. From symbolic amethyst rings to chic and minimalist earrings and everyday necklaces, our collection has a birthstone jewelry gift for anyone celebrating a milestone in February. Explore our selection or get in touch with our Jewelry Experts for help in finding the perfect present.
Shop our collection of amethyst jewelry now!