14 Karat
For those lucky people born in the month of February, they get to call the Amethyst their birthstone! This gemstone is prized for its various shades of violet from lilac to deep purple and has a long and interesting history. Our 14 Karat jewelry specialists go over some of the fun facts and the history of this month’s birthstone.
History of amethyst
The color purple has long been associated with luxe and royalty. This is why some of the most famous and perfect jewelry pieces worn by royals are amethysts. Royals have been wearing amethysts as far back as Alexander the Great, but Catherine the Great, an empress of Russia, is perhaps most well known for her adoration of the stone. She was constantly adorning herself in amethyst necklaces, earrings and other jewelry pieces. Although the Duchess of Windsor, Wallis, comes to a close second with her cartier-designed amethyst necklace that made quite a memorable statement.
Amethyst symbolism
The word amethyst comes from the Greek word “amethystos” which means not intoxicated. The Greeks associated the stone with the wine god and would serve it with drinks with the belief that it would prevent people from overindulging. Even today the stone is supposed to infuse the wearer with a sense of well-being and strength. It is thought to be a stabilizing force amidst chaos. In fact, Buddhists believe that amethyst’s help to enhance meditation and the stone is commonly used for Tibetan prayer beads. Amethyst is associated with feelings of peace, balance and courage.
Where to find amethysts
Amethyst most often occurs in geodes or in the cavities of granite rocks. Once, it was a very rare gemstone, almost as rare as emeralds and it was most commonly mined in Russia until large deposits of it were found in Brazil. Nowadays, you can find amethysts all over the world! Some of the more well known mines are located in the United States, Canada and Zambia.
Taking care of amethysts
Ranking a 7 on the MOHs scale, amethysts are the perfect jewelry for everyday wear. However, the wearer will want to take necessary precautions against any activities that could scratch the gem. Amethysts should not be worn when using household cleaners or exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time. The gem can be cleaned, but it is recommended to only be washed with a mild soap and warm water.
Visit us
Come and visit us for all your Amethyst jewelry needs! It can be the perfect jewelry gift for a loved one born in February, or as a special wedding anniversary present! Come and visit us at the Shops of Legacy, 168th and West Center Roads!
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