February birthstone is a regal one. Amethyst was loved by both kings and queens for centuries. Gemologists and consumers both love amethyst because it's an affordable, beautiful gemstone. It's a hard and durable gem from the quartz family measuring 7 on the Mohs scale.

Different tones of amethyst have different prefixes; "Siberian Amethyst" refers to darker, more saturated amethyst 

(though the gemstone themselves need not be from Siberia). Less saturated amethyst with a pink hue is named "Rose De France". 

Up until the 19th century, amethyst was as expensive as ruby and emerald until large deposits were found in Brazil.

Amethyst Folklore:

It is believed amethyst posses powers to change anger to tranquillity and is used by crystal healers to transform negative energy into positive energy. Its name derives from the Greek word "Amethustos", "A" meaning "not" and "methustos" meaning "to intoxicate". It was believed in ancient times, lords who wanted to stay sober had drinking goblets made from amethyst.

Amethyst is given on the 6th wedding anniversary.

Shopping for Amethyst: What to look for

• Color: The best amethyst is a strong purple. The less saturated the purple color (lavender) or color zoning will reduce the value and cost.
• Clarity: Amethyst should be 'eye clean' which means inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.
• Cut: The larger the cut juxtaposed with strong color and eye clean clarity.
• Rarity: The Siberian and Uruguayan amethyst command higher prices as little material is coming from the mines at present.

We recommend cleaning amethyst jewelry with warm water and Dawn dish soap.

Miss us? See us in March 24-26 in San Mateo @ the Intergem Show

California Girl Jewelry's ode to February: Uruguayan amethyst prong set in an antique (1880s) 18K white gold setting with diamonds on every petal. In addition to the hot pink flash, this 18 carat amethyst from Uruguay has an electric blue flash with a deep purple color.