Gem Gossip – Amethyst

The February born shall find

Sincerity and peace of mind,

Freedom from passion and from care,

If they, the Amethyst will wear..

The planet Uranus rules the sign of Aquarius and governs the month of February. Those born in February are original and fairly eccentric people. Strong and fixed, they have inherited from the stars, an accurate intuition, a tremendous common sense, ingeniousness, and a powerful will. They are idealistic and can handle the difficulties of life with a smile.  Those born in February are over-sensitive and are easily hurt by others. They are loyal to those they love and espouse a good cause passionately.

Amethyst is a semiprecious stone and is the traditional birthstone for February. It is a violet variety of quartz often used in jewelry. Amethyst is produced in abundance from the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil, South Korea, Maissau, Lower Austria, Russia, south India , and Zambia. The largest Amethyst mine in North America is located in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Up until the 18th century, Amethyst was included in the cardinal, or most valuable, gemstones (along with diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald). However, since the discovery of extensive deposits in locations such as Brazil, it has lost most of its value.

Amethyst is graded based on the depth of color, possibly of red flashes if cut conventionally. As it is readily available in large structures, the value of the gem is not primarily defined by carat weight. The highest grade Amethyst (called “Deep Russian”) is exceptionally rare and therefore when one is found, its value is dependent on the demand of collectors. Not only does the beautiful color make this gem so popular but the availability in different shapes and sizes also adds to its appeal. Amethyst complements both warm and cool colors so it looks fabulous set in both yellow and white metals. This unique ability means it enhances almost every color in one’s wardrobe.

Throughout history, Amethyst has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and numerous cultures. The name comes from the Ancient Greek a- (“not”) and méthystos (“intoxicated”), a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. This belief has its origins in an ancient legend. The wine god Bacchus, angry over an insult, and determined to avenge himself, decreed that the first person he met would be devoured by his tigers. The unfortunate mortal happened to be a beautiful maiden named Amethyst on her way to worship at the shrine of Diana. As the ferocious beasts sprang, she sought the protection of the goddess and was saved by being turned into a clear, white crystal. Bacchus, regretting his cruelty, poured the juice of his grapes over the stone as an offering, giving the gem its lovely purple hue.

The ancient Greeks wore Amethyst and made drinking vessels decorated with it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication. The Romans dedicated February and therefore by association, Amethyst, to Neptune, their water-god. It is the stone of St. Valentine and faithful love and signifies ecclesiastical dignity as the Bishop’s Stone. English regalia were even decorated with Amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty.

In Indian Astrology, Jamuniya or Amethyst is believed to protect and calm the mind of its wearer. . It is said to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. Wearing Amethysts is said to cure one of alcoholism or any other addiction. It supposedly improves concentration and hence is useful for those engaged in research. Amethyst represents the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) and Third-Eye Chakra (Agnya), and converts negative energies into positive forces, thus helping in meditation. It is a Gemstone of tremendous spiritual value and helps in balancing the chakras and awakening the Kundalini.

Also called the lovers’ gemstone, Amethyst signifies true love and fidelity. No wonder then that is a popular choice as anniversary gifts for the 4th or 6th year. Amethyst is believed to cure headaches, depression, grief, despair, and insomnia. In sacred texts it is regarded as an alternative to the Blue Sapphire and has the astrological energies of Saturn. In China the Amethyst find its use in curing stomach pain and back pain. It is also said to help overcome the inferiority complex.

While the benefits of wearing Amethysts close to your skin are several, it is also heartening to know that there are few known negative impacts of the gemstone. With the new multihued trend that is taking the jewellery scene by storm, Amethyst finds fresh popularity and appeal. Wear it in combination with gems such as Turquoise and Emeralds for an interesting play of colour, or with the neutral tones smoky Topaz and Diamonds for glamour. Find out how you can make Amethyst work for you. Our online collection has enough and more to inspire you, and needless to say that anything that catches your fancy can be customized to the design and style you like. Give Gehna the opportunity to make this unique purple gemstone sing for you..

View our Amethyst Jewellery Collection: Amethyst Silver Jewellery | Amethyst Earrings | February Birthstone Jewellery