February is a month of love, and what better way to celebrate it than with a beautiful birthstone? The birthstone for February is the amethyst. This gemstone is a type of quartz that comes in a range of purple shades, from light lilac to deep violet. In this blog post, we will explore the history, symbolism, and meaning of the amethyst.
History of Amethyst
The amethyst has been admired for its beauty for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans believed that the amethyst had healing powers and could ward off evil spirits. The word "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," which means "not drunk." The Greeks believed that the amethyst could prevent intoxication, and many wine goblets were made from amethyst in the hopes that it would keep drinkers sober.
Symbolism and Meaning of Amethyst
The amethyst is often associated with peace, tranquility, and stability. It is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and emotions, and many people use it for meditation and spiritual purposes. The purple colour of the amethyst is also associated with royalty and nobility, as it was once considered a rare and precious gemstone. Today, the amethyst is a popular gemstone for jewellery and is often given as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.
How to Care for Amethyst
If you are lucky enough to own a piece of amethyst jewellery, it is important to take care of it properly. Amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone, but it can still be damaged if it is not cared for correctly. To clean your amethyst jewellery, simply soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then rinse it off and dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing your amethyst to extreme heat or sunlight, as this can cause the colour to fade.
The Birthstone for February Babies
The amethyst is a beautiful and meaningful gemstone that has been prized for centuries. Whether you are celebrating a February birthday or simply looking for a stunning piece of jewellery, the amethyst is a great choice. With its rich history, calming symbolism, and stunning colour, the amethyst is sure to be a cherished addition to any jewellery collection.
Looking for your birthstone? Explore the birthstone collection here.
