What Is My Birthstone?
February Birthstone: Amethyst
Amethyst
Amethyst is the February birthstone on both the modern and traditional lists. It is the purple variety of quartz, colored by traces of iron and natural irradiation, and it ranges from pale lavender to the deep, red-flashing Siberian purple that collectors prize most.
The Greeks named it amethystos, meaning not drunk, and drank from amethyst cups to stay clear-headed. It was once as valuable as ruby until huge Brazilian deposits made it affordable in the 1800s, which is why you can own a large, genuine amethyst for very little today.
Older lists sometimes name jasper or hyacinth for February, but amethyst has been the standard choice for more than a century.
February birthstones at a glance
- Modern birthstone: Amethyst
- Traditional birthstone: Amethyst
- Alternates: Jasper
- Color: purple and violet
- Traditionally associated with clarity, calm and a clear head
About Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and is the traditional birthstone for February. It's prized for its beautiful purple color ranging from light lavender to deep violet.
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
- Ancient Greeks believed it prevented intoxication
- The name comes from the Greek 'amethystos' meaning 'not drunk'
- Was once considered as valuable as diamonds
How to tell real Amethyst at a glance
- Color: Purple, Violet, Deep Purple, Lavender. Look at a clean, dry surface in daylight. Color zoning, banding or spots are as diagnostic as the hue.
- Luster: Vitreous. Fresh surfaces shine like glass; a dull surface usually means weathering, so chip or wet a corner.
- Transparency: Transparent. Hold a thin edge up to a bright light and note whether light passes through.
- Mohs hardness: 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Other stones on this page
Frequently asked questions
What is the birthstone for February?
The modern February birthstone is Amethyst. Jasper is also used.
What color is the February birthstone?
Amethyst is purple and violet.
Is amethyst expensive?
Usually not. Because it is abundant, good amethyst is one of the most affordable birthstones. Deep, evenly saturated purple with red flashes commands the highest prices.
Does amethyst fade?
Strong sunlight over years can lighten amethyst, and heat turns it yellow (that is how much commercial citrine is made). Store it out of direct sun.
