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About amethyst
Amethyst is a a violet variety of quartz, colored by iron impurities and natural irradiation rated 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, Amethyst rates 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, the same as all quartz varieties. For context, a steel nail is roughly 6.5, sapphire is 9, and diamond is 10. At 7, amethyst handles regular wear well as a necklace, earrings, or bracelet. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the color over time, so store amethyst jewelry away from sunny windows.. Its color ranges from violet to deep purple, ranging from pale lavender to rich royal purple with occasional reddish undertones, with the most prized stones showing even saturation and high clarity.
Amethyst takes its name from the Greek amethystos, meaning not drunken, after an ancient belief that the stone protected its wearer from intoxication. The Greeks and Romans carved it into drinking vessels and signet rings. For centuries amethyst was as valuable as ruby and emerald until vast deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century. Today most amethyst comes from Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Madagascar.
Historically, amethyst has been associated with calm, clarity, intuition, and protection. In crystal healing and metaphysical traditions, amethyst is associated with the Third Eye and Crown Chakras. It is linked to mental clarity, restful sleep, and spiritual awareness. Practitioners often use it as a stone for meditation and emotional balance, themes that align with February's introspective quality.
Amethyst vs tanzanite
Same color family, different stones. Here's how to choose.
Amethyst
Amethyst and tanzanite are entirely different mineral families. Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite and rates 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale; amethyst is a variety of quartz and rates 7. Tanzanite's blue-violet comes from vanadium after heat treatment; amethyst's purple comes from iron and natural irradiation.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite reads as a cooler blue-violet with strong pleochroism, meaning it shows different colors from different angles, and carries a much higher price point given its single source in Tanzania. Amethyst sits in warmer purple territory at far more accessible pricing. If you are choosing between the two for a purple gemstone, amethyst is the more durable and affordable choice.
Born in February?
Amethyst is the modern birthstone for February February birthstone. For people who follow birthstone jewelry traditions, amethyst makes a thoughtful gift for anyone born in February. Its violet tones flatter every skin tone, pair beautifully with both gold and silver, and the symbolism of calm and clarity makes it as meaningful as it is wearable.
See all February birthstones on the February birthstone jewelry hub.
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Amethyst Jewelry: Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the birthstone for February?
Amethyst is the official birthstone for February, designated by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. It is a purple variety of quartz (Mohs 7) associated with clarity, calm, and protection. At Erin Gallagher Jewelry, amethyst jewelry starts at $20 for charms, with necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from $75, all handcrafted in Colorado.
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What zodiac signs are connected to amethyst?
Amethyst is associated with Aquarius (January 20 through February 18) and Pisces (February 19 through March 20), the two signs that fall during February. It is connected to the Crown Chakra and Third Eye Chakra, and is thought to support clarity, intuition, and calm. Explore our zodiac jewelry collection for sign-specific pieces.
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Can amethyst fade in sunlight?
Yes. Prolonged direct sunlight or UV exposure can gradually fade amethyst over time. Normal daily wear outdoors is fine, but avoid leaving amethyst jewelry on a windowsill or in direct sun for extended periods. Store in a cool, shaded jewelry box when not wearing it.
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Is amethyst natural or treated?
Amethyst is a natural gemstone. Its purple color comes from trace amounts of iron within the quartz crystal structure, combined with natural irradiation over millions of years — not from any applied treatment. At Erin Gallagher Jewelry, all amethyst is ethically sourced and hand-selected for rich, even color.
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Is amethyst jewelry a good February birthday gift?
Amethyst is the February birthstone and the traditional gift for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries, making it meaningful for both birthdays and milestones. Every piece from Erin Gallagher Jewelry ships gift-ready in eco-friendly packaging with a gift bag, tissue, cleaning cloth, and card. Orders over $150 ship free. Charms from $20. Browse birthstone gift ideas
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What makes Erin Gallagher amethyst jewelry different?
Every piece is handcrafted in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in 14K gold, gold-fill, or recycled sterling silver using natural, ethically sourced amethyst. The store is rated 4.7 stars across 2,656+ reviews and ships gift-ready at no extra charge. Amethyst starts at $20. Free shipping over $150. Custom pieces available through GemBar.