Long associated with royalty, amethyst is February's beautiful birthstone. This distinctive gem is instantly recognisable by its colour, since no other stone has amethyst's characteristic purple hue. Available in a broad spectrum of purple tones, from the palest lilac to deep violet, the best quality amethysts are rich purple, without any other traces of colour.

The name amethyst comes from the Greek amethyein or amethystos meaning “to not be drunk" and it was once believed that amethyst prevented intoxication. Hence it's said that the Greeks and Romans would drink out of amethyst goblets to prevent drunkenness! Amethyst also symbolises true love and is the gemstone of St. Valentine.

Found on every continent, amethyst's colour varies depending on its origin. Interestingly, amethyst was once as valuable as ruby and emerald, and it remained an expensive gemstone until huge deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century. Amethyst is a type of quartz and rates a 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it is relatively durable and suitable for everyday jewellery such as an engagement ring.

One consideration for amethyst gemstones is that its purple color can fade under repeated and prolonged exposure to sunlight. So if you're planning a day in the sun, or you're not wearing your amethyst jewellery for a while, we advise you to store it in a box with a lid, keeping it away from light exposure.  We love amethyst jewellery; the warm purple colour beautifully complements all shades of gold. 

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