Amethyst: February's Birthstone and History's Favourite Purple

Here is a fact to reset your view of amethyst: until the nineteenth century it ranked among the cardinal gems — priced with sapphire, ruby and emerald, worn by royalty and clergy who prized its imperial purple. Then vast Brazilian deposits arrived, supply soared, and amethyst became that rarest thing: a royal stone at a democratic price.

What fine amethyst looks like

Colour is everything. The benchmark is a deep, saturated purple with flashes of red and blue — the trade's traditional 'Siberian' grade, named for the legendary Russian material. Pale lavender stones are pretty and inexpensive; the rich royal tones carry the presence. Because amethyst grows clean, expect eye-flawless clarity as standard — visible inclusions are a discount, not a character feature.

February's birthstone

Amethyst gives February the most regal entry in the birthstone calendar. The name comes from the Greek amethystos — 'not drunken' — the ancients believing the stone kept its wearer clear-headed. A charming promise, and a genuinely superb gift: significant size is affordable, so a February birthday can receive a stone with real drama.

Quartz family notes

Amethyst is quartz, coloured by iron and irradiation deep in the earth. Heat it and it turns golden — most commercial citrine is exactly that. At Mohs 7 it wears well in all jewellery with sensible care (our care routine applies), though long sunbathing can slowly fade its colour: a stone for evenings and estates, not the beach towel.

Buying and setting

Buy on colour depth and cut quality — both are affordable, so accept no compromise. Amethyst sings in white metals for contrast or yellow gold for warmth, and pairs beautifully in anniversary and cocktail designs. Browse our loose gemstones or commission around one — royal purple, without the royal ransom.

Continue your gem education

Birthstones by Month · Anniversary Gemstones · Aquamarine Guide · browse all Gem Guides — or explore loose gemstones.