February Birthstone – Amethyst

February Birthstone Amethyst

The gemstone representing the month of February is the Amethyst.  It is also a representative of the Zodiac stone for the constellation of Pisces.  Amethyst is a variation of quartz, and is identified by its long prismatic crystals.  These crystals have six sides at each end that can only show their color at the tips.  Though it can come in many shades, it is only identified as the color purple.  Depending on where they originate, this gemstone is unique to its region and the mine from which it came from. Amethyst has been found in Mexico, Brazil, Namibia, Zambia and also mined in the United States from North Carolina and Maine.

In the most of the northern hemisphere, the month of February can be a one of the coldest and darkest during the winter season. During this time many suffer bouts of depression and sadness. It comes as no surprise then, the Amethyst can be given as a gift to lift a loved ones spirits so that their birth-month can be a time of celebration, even in the darkest of times. It is more than well-known that specific gemstones have been designated to symbolize our birth-month. Each gemstone in the Gregorian calendar offer certain gifts of positive energy to their owners according to the season and time of year. When one is in touch with the specific powers and special energies from each precious stone, they will be gifted with many positive attributes to last throughout their lives.

The name “amethyst” is Greek for “not drunken”, and believed that it would deter the effects of drinking alcohol in excess.  In saying this, it comes as no surprise that it symbolizes sobriety, which in turn might bring one wisdom and security.  A Greek, mythological story tells that, Dionysus, the god of intoxication, one day had been outraged by an insult from a mortal he had encountered, who then created Tigers to deal his wish to have revenge on the mortal.  Amethyst, a young maiden who was on her way to pay tribute to the goddess Diana, happened to appear in her path en route.  She turned a statue in to a crystalline quartz, so as to protect Amethyst from the apparent danger.  At the sight of the beautiful stone, she cried tears of wine.  Her tears stained the quartz purple, then was born amethyst.

The color purple in itself was the color of royalty, making the Amethyst noble enough to have been worn by powerful monarchs.  They are inlaid on the British Crown Jewels and were also the  beloved gemstone of Egyptian Royalty and Catherine the Great.  It is the stone of Bishops and is the symbol of piety.  For those who might receive an amethyst as a gift, it is also the symbol to create calmness and tranquility, it also grants balance in emotional times.  It was also worn to protect soldiers from the weapons of war and to give them victory over their enemies, also to ensure luck to hunters that they might have a successful kill.

The February birthstone of amethyst is also referred to as the “stone of lovers” and is the stone of St. Valentine, who is told to have always worn it.  During the days of romance and chivalry in the Middle ages, an amethyst in the shape of a heart created the greatest earthly passion a couple to remain in love  for the rest of their lives.

Other interesting facts about the month of February

February Birthstone Flower:

The Primrose or Violets

February Birthstone Tree:

The Pine tree symbolizing life, longevity and immortality.

Famous People born in February:

Elizabeth Taylor- February 27, 1932

John Travolta- February 18, 1954

Cybill Shepard- February 18, 1950

Dakota Fanning- February 23, 1994

Chris Farley- February 15, 1964

Jane Seymour- February 15, 1951