Amethyst ~ The birthstone for February

Amethyst, the birthstone of February, is a variety of Quartz that has a remarkable purple colour ranging from a blend of deep violet and red to a pretty lighter lilac or lavender shade.

This week we discovered the stunning collection of Amethyst gemstones at Lawson Gems ~ www.lawsongems.com ~ so why not spoil yourself! Design something with one of the amazing unset gems or fall in love with one of the fun amethyst rings! 

Check out this beautiful selection here

https://www.lawsongems.com/collections/february/February

Here are some fun facts about amethyst......

Ancient Greeks believed that the stone protected the wearer from drunkenness and enabled them to keep a balanced mindset.

The name amethyst derives from the Greek amethystos, which means “a remedy against drunkenness,” a benefit long ascribed to this gorgeous purple gem.

In the Greek language methy is the word for wine, often of a colour similar to that of this gem.

This legend and the connection to Bacchus led to the belief that drinking wine from a cup made of amethyst would prevent drunkenness! And later it was thought that wearing amethyst prevent the wearer from being poisoned.

Other legends say that amethyst can control evil thoughts, help hunters in the capture of animals (helpful !)  and make the wearer shrewd in business matters.

Amethyst was also believed to keep the wearer clear headed and quick witted in battle and business affairs.

Renaissance Europeans thought it calmed lovers overrun by passion, so put that up on your Instagram feed!

Amethyst Gems have been known for centuries, and many metaphysical properties have become associated with it over time. Amethyst is associated with stability, balance, peace, courage, sincerity, inner strength and a calm disposition.

The main source is from Brazil although it is also found in many other places such as Zambia, Namibia and Uruguay. 

It can be used as a brilliant cut and faceted stone but also as smooth cabochons and is also often carved into various shapes.

 Amethyst beads are commonly used in many styles of jewellery, and sometimes the amethyst crystals are hung from earrings or as a pendant. 

As your February birthstone and you’ll be in royal company: Catherine the Great (Empress Catherine II of Russia; 1729–1796) had a penchant for the gem, and decked herself in necklaces, earrings and other amethyst-adorned ornaments. The famous jewellery connoisseur Wallis, Duchess of Windsor (1896–1986) made a memorable statement when she wore a lavish Cartier-designed amethyst bib necklace to a gala in Versailles in 1953.