Amethyst - February's Birth Stone

Worn and adored for centuries, especially by the clergy and royalty, Amethyst is part of the Quartz family, related to Rose Quartz, Citrine, Smokey Quartz and forming part of the more unusual Ametrine. Amethyst is fairly abundant and therefore often overlooked and sadly not always given the praise and prestige it deserves.

Some of us however, recognize the beauty and elegance of its Purple, through to violetish purple colour, which is both feminine and almost mysterious.  Mainly found in Africa and Brazil the Amethyst gem can vary in its saturation, from a very pale almost clear purple to a very deep reddish purple adding to its versatility, making it so much more fun to work with from a design point of view and appealing to a wide range of clientele.

Once seen to be as precious as a Ruby, Amethyst was viewed in Greek Legend as being associated to Bacchus, the God of wine, due to its deep purple colour, it was seen to protect from the perils of drinking too much wine. Others viewed it as a stone which ensured its wearer was clear minded, sharp and wary of seduction, so ideal for those working in business, under a lot of pressure or trying to keep clarity while making important decisions. It is essentially a healing stone that looks after your head and mind, also seen as relieving insomnia and ensuring pleasant dreams.

On the Moh’s scale, which measure’s its hardness it is rated as a 7, meaning it is hard enough to wear often and can be used in rings and as a charm on a bracelet.

Gemme Couture love to use this stone, as it is beautiful, versatile, elegant but also it is a stone that can be afforded by both Royalty and those who love gem stones but perhaps have less to spend than a royal.

My favourite Gemme Couture piece, which uses Amethyst, is the Petite Friendship Bracelet, so delicate and pretty…. This bracelet is ideal as a gift to a friend or sister (who wouldn’t love to receive one of these). It is also perfect as a gift for oneself.

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