Amethyst: February's Birthstone

We’re heading into February, which means it’s time to celebrate one of the most beloved gemstones—amethyst! As February’s birthstone, amethyst has been admired for centuries for its stunning purple hues and rich symbolism. The name comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated,” a reference to the ancient belief that amethyst could prevent drunkenness. This beautiful quartz variety has been cherished for its beauty, history, and metaphysical properties.

snuff bottle with figure in a garden-Qing dynasty (1644-1911)

Colors of Amethyst

When you think of amethyst, a deep royal purple likely comes to mind, but its color range is surprisingly diverse. Amethyst can appear in delicate lavender, rich violet, and even reddish-purple hues. Heat treatment can also transform it into warm golden or orange tones, known as citrine. A lesser-known but equally fascinating variety is green amethyst, also called prasiolite, which occurs naturally in rare cases but is often produced by heat-treating purple amethyst. Whether you love classic purple or prefer the fresh green of prasiolite, there’s an amethyst shade for everyone.

amethyst can range from very light violet, sometimes called pink amethyst, to deep rich purple

Where Amethyst Is Found

Amethyst can be found all over the world, but some locations produce truly exceptional specimens. Brazil and Uruguay are famous for their massive geodes lined with deep purple crystals. The sparkling amethyst cathedrals from these regions are breathtaking. Siberia, historically known for its prized deep-hued amethyst, produced gemstones that were once reserved for royalty. Amethyst is also found in Africa, particularly in Zambia, where rich violet gems with striking clarity are mined. The United States has its share of amethyst, too—Arizona, Colorado, and North Carolina all have notable deposits.

Symbolism and Meaning

Amethyst has long been associated with clarity, protection, and spiritual growth. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed it could ward off drunkenness and overindulgence. In medieval Europe, it symbolized piety and wisdom and was often worn by clergy. The stone is also linked to the crown chakra, making it a favorite for meditation and spiritual work. Whether you’re seeking inner peace, balance, or just a beautiful gemstone with a deep history, amethyst has a lot to offer.

A Rich History

Amethyst has been treasured by many cultures throughout history. Egyptian royalty adorned themselves with amethyst jewelry, believing it had protective qualities. The Greeks carved drinking vessels from amethyst, hoping it would prevent intoxication. In Renaissance Europe, it was a symbol of power and status, often appearing in royal regalia. Even the British crown jewels feature amethyst pieces, continuing its legacy as a gem of nobility.

Geology

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, composed of silicon dioxide with traces of iron that give it its purple color. It forms in geodes and volcanic rock cavities, often creating stunning crystal-lined formations. With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is durable enough for everyday jewelry, but it should still be stored carefully to prevent scratches. Heat and sunlight can cause its color to fade over time, so it’s best kept out of prolonged direct sunlight.

amethyst crystal cluster with iron inclusions- Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

Fun Facts

We’ve talked science and history—now for the fun stuff! The largest amethyst geode in the world, the Empress of Uruguay, stands over 11 feet tall and is covered in deep purple crystals. The name “amethyst” is also tied to Greek mythology—according to legend, the god Dionysus, angry over an insult, vowed to unleash tigers on the next mortal he met. That mortal happened to be a maiden named Amethyst, who was turned to a clear quartz statue by the goddess Artemis to protect her. Dionysus, remorseful, poured wine over the statue, staining it purple and creating amethyst.

(image of the Empress of Uruguay geode)

Did you know amethyst is also the official state gemstone of South Carolina? In addition, it was once considered more valuable than diamonds until large deposits were discovered in Brazil.

Amethyst in Pop Culture

Amethyst has made its way into pop culture in fascinating ways. It appears in literature, from ancient myths to modern fantasy novels. The color amethyst is often associated with royalty, magic, and mystery in movies and TV. Fans of the show Steven Universe will recognize Amethyst as a beloved character inspired by the stone. The beauty and symbolism of amethyst continue to inspire artists, writers, and designers.

large triangle faceted amethyst

Amethyst is far more than just February’s birthstone—it’s a gem with deep historical roots, stunning variety, and powerful symbolism. Whether you’re drawn to its calming energy, its royal past, or simply its beauty, amethyst is a timeless treasure that has captivated people for centuries.