Bling of the Month: February

The February born shall find

Sincerity and peace of mind,

Freedom from passion and from care

If they an amethyst will wear.

Happy February my gems, and what a great month it is!  First of all it's the month of LOVE, and second it's the month for one of my favorite gemstones to work with, the always seductive amethyst.

Known for it's unique purple color, the amethyst has been the most representative gem in the quartz family. Coveted by royalty for its altars and crown jewels, the amethyst even makes an appearance in biblical times.  Moses describes it as a symbol of the Spirit of God in the official robes of the High Priest of the Jews. In Russia, the Empress Catherine the Great, enamored with its purple hue, sent her miners into the Urals to find the stone to be used in her jewels and altars. Today, amethyst is a very important gem in Catholic religion, with rosaries made of this gem quite often. The papal ring worn by Pope Benedetto is the same amethyst solitaire he wore as a cardinal.

Although it's found all over the world, the greatest deposits are in southern Brazil and Uruguay, with Madagascar following in third place. They are also found in Russia, and those amethysts are world renown for their distinct color that shines beautifully, even in artificial light. 

From Namibia:
Quartz with an amethyst phantom

As far as its magical powers, the amethyst is accredited with warding off drunkenness! In fact the Greek word "amethystos" means "not intoxicated."  So ladies, if you are going out for a night on the town you better get your amethyst bling on. Who knows, it might even save you from getting a DIU, now that would be truly magical. 

Here is a beautiful amethyst and quartz ring from
my "Wanderlust" collection.
It's set in 18kt gold and it's a great piece
for day or night. 

Other characteristics attributed to this gem are its power to bring fortune, protect crops, bring good luck in war times, and drive out evil spirits. It is also known to have a cleansing effect and beautify friendship.  What an excellent choice to make it the birthstone for the month of love and friendship, don't you think? A great choice if you are looking for a jewelry piece for a lover or a friend this month.

If you already own or are thinking of gifting someone with a beautiful amethyst piece, here is a special tip.  This gemstone will change color with hot temperatures, so it's best not to wear amethyst jewelry when you are sunbathing or going to be exposed to high heat. Sudden changes in temperature can be harmful to the stone.


Hope you enjoyed this post; I certainly enjoy sharing my gemology knowledge with you.  Have a great month and keep reading for more beautiful jewelry and lifestyle tips.


Love Always
Dani K