Known for its majestic purple color, amethyst is the gemstone of choice for those born in February. Breathtaking and surprisingly affordable, it’s also the most valued variety of quartz. If you’re in the market for this February birthstone, GIA’s Amethyst Buying Guide has tips and advice on what to look for, including amethyst quality factors.

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Think of every passing year as an opportunity to celebrate with your birthstone. In fact, people have been wearing birthstone jewelry since the 15^th century in Poland, when they were encouraged to own all 12. And while birthstone secrets and lore can be found right here on our blog, today we share what makes YOUR birthstone a powerful statement of your finest qualities.

The post Discover the Powers of Your Birthstone appeared first on GIA 4Cs Blog.

Did you know that amethyst — February’s dazzling birthstone — is actually the purple variety of the mineral quartz?

Colorless quartz, known as “rock crystal,”  was primarily used in ancient times to manufacture crystal balls and bowls. Other  varieties include the October birthstone citrine, as well as rose quartz, smoky quartz, and tiger’s eye.

This violetish purple, 23.76-carat cushion cut amethyst is from Brazil.

As the most prized member of the quartz family, amethyst boasts several key attributes. It is relatively common, affordable, and as cut stones, can be  found in large sizes across a wide  range of gem cuts and shapes.

Cushion cut amethyst.

To preserve an amethyst’s lustrous color, avoid prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight. If the stone is mounted, use a toothbrush to clean behind  it where dust tends to collect, and  wash it with warm, soapy water. Ultrasonic cleaning is usually considered safe, though steam cleaning is not recommended.

Read up on amethyst lore, and how wearing one can symbolize personal empowerment.

The post Amethyst – A Variety of Quartz appeared first on GIA 4Cs Blog.

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz that has captivated mankind for centuries. Its lilac to deep purple hues can be cut into many shapes and sizes, and can also be manufactured in a lab rather than mined.

Amethyst and pearl “sun” brooch in gold makes a powerful statement for those born in February.

The ancient Greeks associated the mineral with Bacchus, the god of wine, and believed wearing an amethyst prevented intoxication.

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and represents power.

Historically, royals admired the deep purple hue of amethyst because of the color’s association with royalty since the days of Alexander the Great. Amethyst lore also includes several claims to mystical powers, including that it would convey strength and wit to those who wore it. More modern beliefs associate amethysts with power.

This “Fireworks” necklace prominently displays regal amethysts with rubelite, tanzanite, apatite and peridot. Designed and gifted by Marya Dabrowski.

If you celebrate a February birthday, wearing an amethyst can be a symbol of personal empowerment and inner strength.

 
Check out amethyst in the GIA Celebrates Birthstones exhibit at the GIA Carlsbad campus. Schedule a free tour 24 hours in advance by contacting guestservices@gia.edu; calling 800-421-7250, ext. 4116 or 760-603-4116; or visiting www.gia.edu.

The post GIA Celebrates Birthstones – February’s Empowering Amethyst appeared first on GIA 4Cs Blog.