February Birthstone: Amethyst
Birthstones have their roots in ancient astrology. Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with the month of one’s birth based on the planetary positions. Wearing your birthstone brings you good luck, good health, and protection. Each of the 12 months of the calendar has a unique birthstone and each stone has a unique meaning and significance.
The month of February is the shortest month on the calendar but this short month is brimming with love. A February child is ever ready to bring their dreams and a higher perspective to their personal journey. And what better than their traditional birthstone to accompany them on this journey.
Bringing love, light and crowning calm, the February birthstone is the Amethyst which is the most sought after purple gemstone. This gemstone represents grace, serenity, purification, protection and connection to spirituality.
Amethyst is beautifully aligned with the universe. This spiritually minded stone has the ability to sweep away nerves, keep a balanced mindset and bring a glowing sense of self. It also makes a beautiful focal point for any type of birthstone jewelry including rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
Read on to find out more about this amazing February Birthstone.
The Royal Amethyst
Amethyst is the most beautiful Quartz crystal in the world. Quartz is the second most abundant crystal in the world and is found in a wide range of colours. All Quartz crystals have essentially the same crystal structure, but they vary in chemical composition.
Amethyst is a popular new age gem because of its attractive colors, good durability and affordability.
Amethyst actually occurs in many purple colors ranging from a light lavender to a pale violet to a deep purple. It may exhibit one or both secondary hues, red and blue.
From the ice blasted corners of Siberia to the sultry rainforests of Brazil, Amethyst crystals and geodes can be found across the globe.
Amethyst has a rich history of lore and legend which can be traced back to prehistoric humans.
History & Folklore
While the exact date of discovery is unknown, Amethyst traces have been found as far back as 25,000 years i.e. as early as 2000 BC. Throughout its history, the stone has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and numerous cultures.
Ancient Egyptians sent their dead into the afterlife with the protective gem to guide them. Early Greeks and Romans associated the gem with Bacchus, the God of wine. They believed that it would save them from drunken debauchery. Ancient Chinese used it as a powerful tool to remove negative energies and drive away the hazards of daily life. Tibetan Buddhists linked the gentle stone with the nature of the Buddha. Renaissance Europeans believed that the stone kept the wearer clear headed and quick witted in battle and business affairs.
Amethyst is also the stone of Saint Valentine. He wore an Amethyst engraved with the figure of Cupid. And we all know that Saint Valentine’s Day is in February.
Royals were known to have admired the deep purple hue of the February birthstone and the stone has been found in the collections of royal families throughout Europe and Asia.
Cleopatra (empress of Egypt) wore a signet Amethyst ring with the figure of Mithras (a Persian deity symbolizing the source of light and life) engraved in the stone. Catherine the Great (empress of Russia) had a penchant for the gem and decked herself in Amethyst necklaces, earrings and other ornaments.
Leonard da Vinci once said that Amethyst helps to quicken intelligence and get rid of evil thoughts. Wallis Simpson, duchess of Windsor, made a memorable statement when she wore a lavish Cartier-designed Amethyst necklace to a gala in Versailles in 1953.
Benefits of Amethyst
Amethyst is linked to both the crown chakra and the third eye chakra. Working closely with these chakras, this popular healing stone brings the gift of intuition and awakens the sixth sense of a person. It is also a strong protection amulet.
Wearing this purple stone can open up metal blocks and clear negative thoughts. It helps to tackle anxiety, stress, insomnia, fear and depression. It detoxifies the mind and brings courage and peace to the person. It also helps overcome self destructive addictions like smoking, drinking, drug abuse etc.
Amethyst has an ability to calm restless minds and help those who struggle with the art of decision making. It helps to enhance mental focus, creativity and concentration. It seems to trigger a spark that unveils our deepest wells of inspiration. It can also revive unexpected opportunities and bring financial success.
On a physical level, Amethyst enhances the immune system, regulates hormones, promotes digestive health, reduces headaches and encourages soothing sleep. It also improves cell regeneration, endocrine function and skin’s appearance.
Final Thoughts on Amethyst
Whether seeking for peace and harmony, looking for chakra rebalancing, or wanting to leap higher, Amethyst is the perfect stone to keep close by. There is a reason that this beautiful purple stone has been used for centuries and centuries. It is all about finding a serene spot within and being able to stand with strength in this complicated world.
If you are someone born in February, Amethyst is a distinct and beautiful stone to bring into your life and help you find your space in the universe. If you know someone born in February, gifting them their birthstone will accentuate their most peaceful persona and fill their life with magic.
Shubh Gems has a team of Gemstone / Healing Experts who guide you to choose the most suitable Gemstone based on your Birth-chart in Vedic Astrology. Have Query ?
This is a nice blog, very Informatica.