Februrary-Birthstone

Amethyst’s color is as unique as it is seductive, and yet ironically, this gemstone is said to protect its wearer against seduction as it was thought to put the wearer in a chaste frame of mind and symbolize trust and piety.

For many thousands of years this most striking representative of the quartz family has been a jewel coveted by princes both ecclesiastical and secular. Moses described it as a symbol of the Spirit of God and the Russian Empress Catherine the Great sent thousands of miners into the Urals in search of this royal gem. Amethyst is said to increase your ability to be receptive to new ideas, helping to open the channels to your higher self. For these reasons, many suggest Amethyst for those seeking spiritual growth.

Further miraculous powers are attributed to the Amethyst.  It is said to protect crops against storms and locusts, bring good fortune in war, drive out evil spirits and inspire the intellect. Gemstone therapists say that the Amethyst has a sobering and cleansing effect and that it can quell excessive stomach acid, combat insect bites and beautify the skin. Try wearing Amethyst to help drive off insomnia, relieve headaches and quell general edginess. 

The name Amethyst comes from the Ancient Greek a- ("not") and methustos ("intoxicated"), a reference to the belief that the stone protects its owner from drunkenness.  The ancient Greeks and Romans not only wore Amethyst but also went so far as to make drinking vessels out of it in the belief that its power would prevent intoxication.  Another legend claims that Dionysus, the god of intoxication, was pursuing a maiden named Amethystos, who refused his affections. Amethystos prayed to the gods to remain chaste, which the goddess Artemis granted and transformed her into a white stone. Humbled by Amethystos's desire to remain pure, Dionysus poured wine over the stone as an offering, dyeing the crystals purple

Amethyst is the birthstone associated with February and it is the official zodiac stone of Pisces.  It is also associated with the astrological signs of Aries (especially the violet and purple variety), Aquarius and Sagittarius. Amethyst is associated with water and energies flow through it easily. It is a wonderful meditation and healing mineral and is an excellent stone to use if you are trying to increase your psychic abilities or enhance your intuition as it is known for its ability to ward off negative energies.

Traditionally included with the Cardinal, or most valuable, gemstones (Diamond, Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald), Amethyst has lost much of its value due to the discovery of extensive deposits in Brazil. There are also significant deposits in Uruguay and Madagascar, although this gemstone can be found all over the world. The highest grade Amethyst, called "Deep Russian" is exceptionally rare and therefore its value is dependent on the demand of collectors.