Amethyst birthstone meaning
The name of the birthstone for February, "amethyst" is coined from the Greek word "amethystos," which means "not intoxicated." Ancient Greeks believed that wearing it prevented intoxication, while Egyptians associated it with protection. Still to this day, Amethyst is embodies sobriety, calmness, clarity, balance, and inner strength.
Amethyst is royalty among gemstones. It has graced the crowns of kings and queens for centuries. This stunning gem, part of the quartz family, gets its regal purple hue from a magical mix of iron and aluminum in its crystals. From pale lilac to deep purple, there's an amethyst for everyone. But the crown jewel? That's the Uruguayan Amethyst – rich, purple, and flashing red and blue.
Amethysts are sensitive to heat and exposing them to high temperatures can change their color to citrine, another beautiful gemstone!
Some of the world's most significant deposits are located in Brazil, Russia, South Korea, and Zambia.
Tap into its spiritual and healing properties by wearing amethyst jewelry. It will help relieve stress, insomnia, and is said to manage pain.
9 Types of Amethyst Stone
- Siberian Amethyst is known for its deep and saturated purple color and is highly prized.
- African Amethyst (mostly from southern African countries) is recognized for its rich, royal purple shades, and is a popular choice for jewelry enthusiasts.
- Rose de France is a lighter and delicate variety, with a soft lavender or lilac tone. Its gentle hues make it elegant and the right amethyst jewelry for women.
- Chevron Amethyst is characterized by V-shaped banded patterns, combining white quartz with amethyst and creating a visually appealing look.
- Uruguayan Amethyst has an intense purple hue and is accompanied by red and blue flashes, making it highly sought after in the gemstone market.
- Veracruz Amethyst which is mined in Mexico is known for its clarity and often showcases a lighter and more transparent lavender color.
- Maraba Amethyst is recognized for its stunning deep purple shades. The mines in Brazil yield amethyst with excellent color saturation, making it a popular choice for both jewelry and collectors.
- Bahia Amethyst (also from Brazil) often exhibits a regal and saturated color, making it a favored choice for high-quality jewelry pieces.
- Cape Amethyst (found in South Africa) showcases a captivating interplay of distinctive reddish and bluish flashes
Stylish amethyst pieces, and the energies they activate:
Simple and Elegant Jewelry
Amethyst rings, necklaces, and bracelets help you evoke a sense of tranquility and balance. The gentle energy soothes the mind and makes you more spiritually aware. Wearing it close to your skin and especially to your heart or crown chakra allows you to stay connected to its calming vibration, promoting tranquility and guiding your inner compass.
Bold Statement Rings
A bold amethyst statement ring gives you a touch of glamour. It also activates the energy of protection and purifies the aura while shielding you from negative influences. A bold statement ring makes this protective energy accessible and visible. February birthdays call for bold moves.
Delicate Stud Earrings
Delicate amethyst earrings bring a sense of subtlety to your style while activating the energy of clarity and intuition. Amethyst is often associated with enhancing mental clarity and promoting intuitive insights. Wearing it close to the ears can facilitate a clearer perception of the world around you.How to Care for Your Amethyst Jewelry
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Clean it gently: It is a relatively hard gemstone, but it can still scratch or chip if you're not careful. To clean your amethyst jewelry, use a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water. After giving it a good rinse, use a gentle cloth to pat dry. Steer clear of aggressive chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners as they can harm the stone.
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Store it carefully: When you're not wearing your amethyst jewelry, store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from scratches and dust. Don't store it with other gemstones, as they can scratch each other.
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Avoid harsh chemicals: Take off your amethyst jewelry and avoid spraying them directly on the stone before applying products with harsh chemicals like hairspray and cleaning products that can damage it.
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Don't expose it to extreme heat or cold: Sudden temperature changes can damage amethyst. Avoid wearing your birthstone jewelry in a sauna, hot tub, or when you're going swimming in hot springs.
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Take it to a jeweler for professional cleaning: Every few years, take your amethyst jewelry to a jeweler for professional cleaning. They can remove any built-up dirt or grime and check for any loose settings and would help you keep it looking its best for years to come. Incorporating amethyst into your style not only adds a fashionable flair but also allows you to tap into the energetic benefits associated with it. They also become cherished keepsakes that tell the story of craftsmanship and your individuality.
Amethyst is a perfect gift idea for February birthdays. They're also the gem for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries. So, if you're looking for a meaningful gift for someone special, an amethyst piece is a perfect choice!
Incorporating amethyst into your style not only adds a fashionable flair but also allows you to tap into the energetic benefits associated with it. They also become cherished keepsakes that tell the story of craftsmanship and your individuality.