Who knew?Amethyst The Symble of Royalty...

Michael Aram Botanical Leaf 6.00 Carat Total Weight Amethyst and .25 Carat Total Weight Diamond Earrings in Sterling SilverPrice: $1,100.00

Item#: 865581

FEBRUARY BIRTHSTONE

Individuals with February birthdays, the amethyst makes a perfect birthstone. This month is often cold, dark and short for many people around the world, so the amethyst—which is often associated with qualities of peace, courage and stability—is the right gem for individuals who need a little extra warmth and strength this time of year.

A beautiful purple quartz, the amethyst is an easily recognizable gem, but you may not know everything about it just yet!

Greg Ruth 1.60 Carat Total Weight Amethyst and .26 Carat Total Weight Diamonds in 18-Karat White GoldPrice: $1,700.00

Item#: 881987

AMETHYST HISTORY

Amethyst, the gemstone believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus, also was said to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. Throughout history, the gemstone has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and numerous cultures. English regalia were even decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty. Amethyst jewelry has been found and dated as early as 2000 BC.

It has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and numerous cultures. Some historical accounts say that Saint Valentine had an amethyst ring carved with an image of Cupid. And for those familiar with Old Testament history, amethyst was one of the twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel.

For many years, amethyst was held to be one of the most precious gemstones, often favored by royalty or exclusively by the clergy as a symbol for the diety of Christ. It was even held for many years in the same regard as the diamond. It wasn’t until the discovery of more abundant supplies of amethyst that it became a gemstone enjoyed by more than just the wealthiest buyers.

Many wearers of amethyst throughout history and even today prize the gem for its symbolism as well as its beauty. Leonard da Vinci once said that amethyst helps to quicken intelligence and get rid of evil thoughts. Other qualities like peace, stability, courage and strength are said to be derived from this gemstone.

Today, many wearers simply prize the amethyst for its beautiful shade and the way it complements both warm and cool colors.
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Micheal Arm Botonical Leaf 28.00 Carat Total Weight Amethyst and .29 Carat Total Weight Diamond Necklace in Sterling Silver. 30" .
​Price: $1,950.00

Item#: 865578

HOW TO BUY AMETHYST

Whether you’re purchasing an amethyst for yourself or a loved one, you’re making an investment in beauty that will stand the test of time. Amethyst makes a great gift for individuals born in February, or as a celebratory milestone for a 6th or 17th wedding anniversary.

Of course, you’re also welcome to purchase amethyst “just because"........... It’s a beautiful gemstone that ranges in color from a light pinkish violet to a deep red or blue purple violet and complements a number of metals and settings. It’s a durable gemstone that works well with warm or cool colors, so it’s safe to say it goes well beyond special occasion jewelry and can be worn every day, as well.

When looking to purchase amethyst, first visit a jeweler, who is trained and certified to ensure that the consumer has the best information to make a great purchase.

Next, check the color of the stone. Amethyst often has “stripes” or layers of color from how and when it was formed, so it takes a skilled gemologist to cut and polish the stone to show the overall color of the stone evenly. Avoid brownish or rust colored tints to the stone and be careful the color is not too deep or it can appear black in some lights.

Like diamonds, you can also look for clarity in an amethyst. Most gemologists will favor a richly colored stone with some minor inclusions (not eye-visible), since the color of this gem is so highly prized. In lighter colored amethysts, visible inclusions will greatly reduce the value of the gemstone.

Since amethyst is relatively plentiful, the price differential in carat sizes isn’t usually terribly significant, so this can be a great gemstone for statement jewelry pieces

Larger rings, earrings or pendants can make a stunning addition to a jewelry collection, but even smaller amethysts can be deeply and richly colored, making subtler pieces beautiful, too.

All this information can be found on GemSociety.com