Birthstone Articles
For the Love of Amethysts in February!
Garnet Gemstone: More Than Just a Birthstone
The Magnificent Allure of Emerald Gemstones
merald gemstones signify the month of May. Like spring, emeralds represent rebirth, good fortune, youth, and renewal.
Emerald is rooted from smaragdus, defining green in Greek.
The first emerald was unearthed in Egypt in 300 B.C. Cleopatra infamously adored the stone. In ancient Egyptian texts, Cleopatra found the "Cleopatra Emerald" weighing at an unimaginable 97 karats. She split the gemstone in half, giving it to Marc Antony. After Marc Antony fought the Romans and died, architects tried to find his missing half. They never located it.
Myths and Legends Behind Amethyst Birthstone Jewelry
Amethyst is an instantly recognizable purple quartz stone that is used for jewelry and healing purposes throughout the world. Ranging in shade from pale lavender to the deepest purple, the gem is prized for its beauty and properties and is the birthstone for the month of February. With these amazing properties, amethyst birthstone jewelry is an ideal gift for a beloved friend or family member -- or even for yourself.
Amethyst Origins
One of the earliest legends surrounding the amethyst comes to us from Ancient Greece and explains the origins of this highly regarded purple stone. In the story, Dionysius, the Greek god of wine and revelry was angered at a mortal woman, who failed to pay him the proper respect.
February's Birthstone: The Romance of Amethyst
Amethyst is February's birthstone. Some might wonder whether amethyst’s rich violet hue is appropriate for a month associated with red roses and candy hearts. But as it happens, the legend of Saint Valentine says that he wore an amethyst ring carved in the shape of cupid. Amethyst beads, with their grape purple tints, have been associated with love, fertility and romance long before pink Hallmark Cards took February’s center stage.
