ARVENIER
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and the traditional birthstone for February. Its name comes from the Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated', because the ancient Greeks believed it protected against drunkenness. Today it is associated with calm and clarity. To keep an amethyst necklace looking its best, avoid long hours in strong sunlight, which can fade its colour.
What is amethyst?
Amethyst is quartz coloured purple by traces of iron and natural radiation in the earth. It is fairly hard, about 7 on the Mohs scale, so it resists everyday scratches better than glass. Colour ranges from pale lilac to deep violet, and deeper, even purple is generally more valued.
Traditional meanings
Beyond the Greek legend of sobriety, amethyst has been linked with calm, spiritual awareness and royalty, since purple dye was once reserved for rulers. In crystal traditions it is associated with the crown chakra. These are cultural meanings; amethyst has no proven effect on health or mood.
Raw, tumbled or faceted?
- Raw or rough amethyst: natural crystal points with an uneven, organic look. Bohemian and earthy.
- Tumbled or polished: smooth, rounded stones that feel gentle on the skin.
- Faceted: cut like a gem to sparkle; more formal and dressy.
- Combined pieces: amethyst set with black obsidian or clear quartz for contrast.
How to tell amethyst from glass
- Natural amethyst often shows colour zoning: slightly lighter and darker patches.
- Perfectly even colour with tiny round bubbles inside suggests glass.
- Real stone feels cool to the touch and slightly heavy for its size.
- Read the product description: fashion pieces may use dyed quartz or glass, which is fine if priced accordingly.
Care
Clean with lukewarm water, a little mild soap and a soft brush, then dry thoroughly. Do not leave amethyst on a sunny windowsill or in a hot car for long periods; prolonged strong light and heat can fade the purple. Store it separately from harder stones and from metal chains that could scratch it.
Styling amethyst
Purple works beautifully with grey, white, navy and black clothing, and with silver-tone metal. For festive Indian wear, amethyst complements mint, peach and gold. Raw crystal pendants look best on longer 50–60 cm chains over simple tops.
Amethyst as a February birthstone gift
Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February, which makes an amethyst necklace a natural birthday gift for anyone born that month. It is also traditionally given for sixth wedding anniversaries in some lists. Pair a small amethyst pendant with silver-tone chains for a calm, everyday look, or choose a raw crystal on a longer chain for someone with a bohemian style.
Frequently asked questions
Who should wear amethyst?
Anyone can wear it. It is the February birthstone, so it is a natural birthday gift for people born in February.
Does amethyst fade?
It can fade with long exposure to strong sunlight or heat, so store it away from direct sun.
Can I wear amethyst every day?
Yes. It is durable enough for daily wear; just avoid knocks against hard surfaces and harsh chemicals.