February Birthstone Jewelry: Amethyst Purple Quartz Detail & Meaning

Amethyst, February’s birthstone, has captivated royalty and gem lovers for centuries with its rich purple color. Whether you are celebrating a February birthday or simply drawn to its regal hue, our genuine amethyst pieces set in 14k white gold with diamond accents make a meaningful gift.

Here is a closer look at where amethyst came from, how to wear it, what separates a good stone from an ordinary one, and how to keep it looking right.

A Gemstone Fit for Royalty: The History of Amethyst

Amethyst’s name comes from the Greek amethystos, which translates as “not drunken”, from a- meaning “not” and methustos, “intoxicated.” Ancient Greeks believed the stone could protect a wearer from drunkenness and keep the mind clear, and it picked up the nickname “stone of tranquility” along the way. You can read more about its origins through the Gem Society’s history and legend of amethyst.

Royal families across Europe and Asia collected amethyst, and the stone appears in the British Crown Jewels: St Edward’s Crown alone is set with 444 stones, amethysts among them. Russia was the primary source until the 19th century, though the gem is now mined worldwide and can also be grown in a lab.

Purple is more versatile than people expect, and it moves from a workday to an evening out without a change of jewelry. These pieces from our birthstone collection show the range, starting with earrings.

14k White Gold Genuine Amethyst and Natural Diamond Stud Earrings .05 ct. tw.

• 14k white gold with a milgrain finish
• Genuine amethyst petals around a natural diamond center
• Friction-back posts, a shape that reads as more than a plain stud

14k White Gold Genuine Amethyst and Natural Diamond Earrings .07 ct. tw.

• 14k white gold, polished
• A round amethyst framed by a natural diamond halo
• The classic version, and the one that goes with everything

14k White Gold Genuine Amethyst and Natural Diamond Earrings 1/5 ct. tw.

• 14k white gold, polished
• 1/5 ct. tw. of natural diamonds around cushion-cut amethyst
• A drop rather than a stud, so it moves and catches light

The same stone works just as well away from the ears. A pendant sits at the neckline where the color is easiest to see, and a ring puts it where you will notice it yourself.

14k White Gold Genuine Amethyst and Natural Diamond Necklace .04 ct. tw.

• 14k white gold on a 16 inch rollo chain
• A round amethyst framed by a natural diamond halo
• A lobster-claw clasp, and short enough to layer over a collar

14k White Gold Genuine Amethyst and Natural Diamond Fashion Ring 1/10 ct. tw.

• 14k white gold, polished
• 1/10 ct. tw. of natural diamonds around the center stone
• A 1.5 mm shank, slim enough to stack or wear on its own

14k Yellow Gold Amethyst and Green Garnets Natural Diamond Fashion Ring 0.08 ct. tw.

• 14k yellow gold, which warms the purple rather than cooling it
• A large round amethyst ringed with green garnets and natural diamonds
• The statement piece of the group, for when it is the whole outfit

Color Pairings That Work

• Classic contrast: Black, white and gray let amethyst command attention.
• Warm complement: Beige, cream and soft yellow establish a sophisticated balance.
• Tonal harmony: Lavender, lilac and violet in varying shades read as cohesive and polished.
• Bold statement: Emerald green or deep blue produce eye-catching contrast.

Understanding Amethyst Color and Quality

Amethyst is a member of the quartz family, and its purple comes from iron sitting in the crystal lattice where silicon would normally be, altered by natural irradiation as the crystal formed. Colors run from pale lilac to a deep reddish purple.

The most sought-after stones show a saturated medium-to-dark purple with flashes of red and blue. Amethyst also frequently shows color zoning, a variation in intensity through the stone, with the most intense color usually at the crystal terminations. Zoning is natural and adds character, though evenly colored stones command higher prices.

The GIA guide to February birthstones puts amethyst at 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. That suits daily wear in earrings, pendants and rings, with the caveats in the next section.

Caring for Your Amethyst Jewelry

Amethyst is hard enough for everyday life but not indestructible, and two of the four rules below catch people out because they have nothing to do with knocks.

• Clean gently: Warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly so no residue dulls the stone.
• Keep it out of strong light and heat: Prolonged sun or heat can fade the color. Take it off before sunbathing or a tanning bed.
• Store it separately: Diamonds and sapphires are harder and will scratch amethyst. Use a soft pouch or its own compartment.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Remove it before household cleaners or a chlorinated pool.

Periodic professional cleaning and inspection keeps a piece looking right. Our lifetime warranty includes complimentary cleaning at any of our showrooms.

The Robbins Brothers Difference

For more than 100 years we have helped guests find jewelry that marks something worth remembering. Birthstone pieces carry that weight easily, because the stone is already attached to a person, a month, or a year.

When you visit our showrooms you sit down with jewelry consultants who guide rather than pressure, take the time to understand what you actually like, and show you pieces that fit your style and your budget. Whether you are buying for yourself or for someone else, the visit should be the enjoyable part.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the birthstone for February?

Amethyst is February’s birthstone. This purple variety of quartz has been associated with the month since ancient times and is the birthstone recognized by jewelers and gemological organizations today. Our birthstone collection includes amethyst pendants, earrings and rings.

Is amethyst durable enough for everyday jewelry?

Yes, with one qualification that catches people out. The risk to amethyst is rarely impact, it is storage and sunlight: keep it away from diamonds, which are harder and will scratch it, and out of prolonged strong light, which can fade the color over time.

What does amethyst symbolize as a February birthstone?

Clarity, peace and personal strength, and for February birthdays it is often read as empowerment and inner wisdom. It is also the traditional sixth wedding anniversary gift, which is why it turns up as often between couples as it does at birthdays.

Does Robbins Brothers carry amethyst birthstone jewelry?

We do, in genuine amethyst set in 14k white and yellow gold with natural diamond accents, across pendants, earrings and rings. The selection is focused rather than sprawling, so it is worth seeing the pieces side by side in a showroom.

How should I care for amethyst birthstone jewelry?

Warm soapy water and a soft brush, rinsed thoroughly. Keep it out of prolonged direct sunlight and heat, store it apart from harder gemstones, and take it off before household chemicals or a chlorinated pool. Complimentary cleaning is available at any of our showrooms.

Do I need an appointment to shop for amethyst birthstone jewelry?

Walk-ins are always welcome, but with an assortment this focused a booked visit is worth it, because we can have the pieces pulled and waiting rather than sending you looking. Book a consultation and we will do that.

Can I create a custom amethyst jewelry piece?

Absolutely. Our in-house design studio works with you to create something that is yours, whether you are starting from scratch, adjusting an existing design, or reimagining an heirloom. Our master jeweler can build it with you.

Or find a Robbins Brothers near you to explore our amethyst collection in person.