Amethyst is the birthstone associated with February.  It is also associated with the astrological signs of Pisces and Aries.  The Amethyst is said to symbolize trust, sincerity and piety.


The word Amethyst is believed to come from the Greek word Amethystos which can be translated as not intoxicated.  According to legend, Amethyst was thought to be an antidote against drunkenness and therefore wine glasses were made from it.  Perhaps this makes it a fitting stone for the month of February as this is the time when many people celebrate events such as Mardi Gras.

Amethyst is the purple variety of Quartz.  The purple color comes from iron and aluminum interacting with the quartz.  It comes in a range of hues from light pinkish violet to a dark purple.  On the Mohs scale of hardness it is rated 7.

Amethysts have been used as gemstones for hundreds of years throughout the world.  The gem was highly prized by royalty and high ranking members of the church.  It is still very popular as a gemstone as it is very affordable and readily available not to mention beautiful.