Amethyst

Amethyst, the February birthstone is the most loved member from the Quartz family. This gem is much admired for its pleasing violet hue. The name comes from ancient Greek ‘amethystos’ which means ‘not drunken’, as these stones were believed to protect its wearer from drunkenness.

Given its royal violet color, this gem has adorned many a powerful personnel all through history. The ancient Romans wore Amethyst as a talisman. Moses described its beauty by referring to it as ‘Spirit of God’. Russian Empress, Catherine the Great, was known to be passionate about these astounding gems. This beautiful gem is also associated with Buddha and so these stone became the sacred stones for making rosaries.

Scientists attribute the spectral color of these gems to the presence of iron constituents and certain natural radioactive elements. Amethysts are found in various shades of violet. The pale color is also referred to as ‘Rose De France’ and it is often seen as part of Victorian Jewelry. The intensely colored amethysts are highly celebrated.

Unlike many other precious stones, deposits of amethyst are relatively abundant in nature. Amethysts that come from Brazil and Uruguay are highly prized for their fine quality. Very dark, but small crystals of amethyst are mined in Australia. Some other sites where this gemstone is mined are Madagascar, Africa, United States, Soviet Union and India.

This gemstone is also the zodiac stone for ‘Pisces’ and is believed to protect its wearer from the extremes of passion. These stones come in a variety of shapes and cuts, are moderately hard (7 on Moh’s scale). These brilliant stones given their mesmerizing color, relative abundance and availability in large sizes make them a much coveted gem for modern jewelers.

Amethysts are also associated with 6 years of marriage and are symbolic of wisdom, peace and protection. Given their large sizes, these stones make excellent center pieces.

Just one word of caution, these gems tend to fade when exposed to heat and strong sunshine for long durations and hence they must be protected from the same.