Birthstone For February - Caring For Your Amethyst

February is the second month of the year, and the birthstone for February is amethyst. Amethyst is a beautiful purple gemstone that has been prized for centuries for its stunning color and powerful healing properties. Continue reading to learn in detail about the birthstone for February.

The History Of Amethyst

Amethyst is a type of quartz that has been valued for its beauty and symbolism for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that amethyst could prevent drunkenness and promote clarity of mind. The stone was also thought to have magical powers and was often used in amulets and talismans.

In the Middle Ages, amethyst was considered a symbol of royalty and was often worn by bishops and other high-ranking officials in the Church. During the Renaissance, the stone became popular among artists and intellectuals who believed that it could stimulate creativity and enhance mental clarity.

Today, amethyst is still highly valued for its beauty and healing properties. It is often used in jewelry and is also believed to have a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body.

COPYRIGHT_BER: Published on https://www.bernardine.com/birthstone-for-february/ by Barbara Mitchell on 2023-03-03T13:48:06.685Z

The Meaning Of Amethyst

In addition to its historical significance, amethyst also has a rich symbolic meaning. The stone is often associated with peace, stability, and inner strength. It is said to promote emotional balance and to help the wearer find clarity and focus in their thoughts.

Amethyst is also sometimes called the "stone of sobriety" due to its association with preventing drunkenness. This symbolism is still relevant today, as many people use amethyst as a tool to overcome addictions or to promote a sober lifestyle.

Properties Of Amethyst

In addition to its historical and symbolic meaning, amethyst also has a range of physical and metaphysical properties. Here are some of the most commonly recognized properties of amethyst:

• Healing: Amethyst is often used in crystal healing to promote emotional balance and to alleviate stress and anxiety. The stone is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body and can also help to reduce physical pain and inflammation.
• Spiritual Growth: Amethyst is said to enhance spiritual awareness and promote a deeper connection to the divine. It is often used in meditation and prayer practices to help the user achieve a state of higher consciousness.
• Protection: Amethyst is believed to have protective properties that can help to shield the user from negative energies and psychic attacks. It is often used in feng shui to create a peaceful and harmonious environment in the home.
• Creativity: Amethyst is said to stimulate creativity and enhance mental clarity, making it a popular stone among artists and writers.

Birthstone For February

As mentioned earlier, amethyst is the birthstone for February. This means that individuals born in February are said to have a special connection to the stone and may benefit from its healing and symbolic properties.

Here are some of the ways in which amethyst can be used by those born in February:

• Jewelry - Amethyst jewelry is a popular gift for those born in February, as it is both beautiful and meaningful. A piece of amethyst jewelry can serve as a constant reminder of the wearer's connection to their birthstone and can also provide a source of comfort and healing.
• Meditation - Those born in February may find that amethyst is a particularly powerful stone for meditation and prayer practices. The stone's ability to promote emotional balance and spiritual growth can be especially beneficial for those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice.
• Home Decor - Amethyst can also be used in home decor to create a peaceful and harmonious environment. Placing amethyst crystals throughout the home can help to promote a sense of calm and tranquility, making it an ideal stone for those born in February who seeks a peaceful and balanced life.

How To Care For Your Amethyst?

Amethyst is a durable gemstone, but like any precious stone, it requires proper care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips for caring for your amethyst:

Cleaning Your Amethyst Jewelry

To clean your amethyst jewelry, simply soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes and then gently scrub it with a soft brush. Rinse the jewelry thoroughly and then pat it dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone.

Storing Your Amethyst

To keep your amethyst safe and protected, store it in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with separate compartments for each piece. Avoid storing your amethyst with other jewelry or in direct sunlight, as this can cause the stone to fade or become damaged over time.

The Legends And Lore Of Amethyst

Throughout history, amethyst has been surrounded by many legends and stories. Here are some of the most fascinating tales about this beautiful gemstone:

The Legend Of Bacchus And Amethyst

According to ancient Greek mythology, amethyst was created by the god Bacchus, who was angered by a mortal and vowed to punish the next person he met. The next mortal Bacchus encountered was a young woman named Amethyst, who was on her way to pay tribute to the goddess Diana.

Bacchus released two tigers to attack Amethyst, but Diana turned her into a statue of pure quartz to protect her. Bacchus, feeling remorseful for his actions, poured wine over the statue, which turned it purple and created the first amethyst.

The Healing Powers Of Amethyst

Throughout history, amethyst has been revered for its powerful healing properties. In ancient times, it was used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, insomnia, and digestive issues.

Today, many people still use amethyst for its healing powers, with some even claiming that it can cure addiction, depression, and anxiety. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, the soothing and calming properties of amethyst are well-known and widely recognized.

The Different Shades Of Amethyst

While amethyst is commonly associated with its purple hue, there are actually many different shades of amethyst, each with its own unique qualities and symbolism. Here are some of the different shades of amethyst:

Deep Purple Amethyst

The most common and popular shade of amethyst is deep purple, which is often used in jewelry and spiritual practices. Deep purple amethyst is said to symbolize power, intuition, and spiritual growth, making it an ideal stone for meditation and spiritual exploration.

Green Amethyst

Also known as prasiolite, green amethyst is a rare and beautiful variety of amethyst that ranges in color from pale green to yellow-green. Green Amethyst is said to promote healing, balance, and emotional stability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more grounded and centered existence.

Rose Amethyst

Rose amethyst, also known as lavender amethyst, is a lighter shade of purple that is often associated with love, romance, and peace. It is said to help open the heart chakra and promote feelings of compassion, forgiveness, and understanding.

Chevron Amethyst

Chevron Amethyst is a unique variety of amethyst that features bands of white quartz running through the stone. This creates a distinctive chevron pattern that is both striking and beautiful. Chevron amethyst is said to promote balance, harmony, and a sense of inner peace, making it an excellent stone for meditation and spiritual growth.

People Also Ask

What Other Gemstones Are Associated With February Besides Amethyst?

Other February birthstones include bloodstones and onyx.

Can Amethyst Fade Or Change Color Over Time?

Yes, exposure to sunlight or heat can cause amethyst to fade or change color.

What Is The Most Valuable Type Of Amethyst?

The most valuable type of amethyst is the deep purple variety which is transparent and free of visible inclusions.

How Can You Tell If My Amethyst Is Real Or Fake?

A genuine amethyst will be cold to the touch and have a consistent color throughout the stone, while a fake amethyst may feel warm or have noticeable color variations.

What Is The Largest Amethyst Ever Found?

The largest amethyst geode ever discovered was found in Brazil and weighed over 2.5 tons.

Conclusion

Amethyst is a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and symbolism. As the birthstone for February, it holds special significance for those born in this month, providing a source of comfort, healing, and spiritual growth.

Whether you choose to wear amethyst jewelry, meditate with amethyst crystals, or incorporate the stone into your home decor, there are many ways to harness the power and beauty of this remarkable gemstone. So if you are a February baby, be sure to explore the many ways in which amethyst can enhance your life and bring you closer to the peace, clarity, and balance that you seek.

About The Authors

Barbara Mitchell - Barbara is recognized by the industry leaders for her passion and objective to make beautiful jewellery accessible, affordable and forever wearable. She designs custom made jewelery made of gold and diamonds for more than 20 years. Her website, bernardine.com has been mentioned in many books such as "The 12 Gemstones of Revelation", "Teens Have Style!", "10-Minute Crystal Healing" and websites such as wikipedia.org, etsy.com, buzzfeed.com, yahoo.net.