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Family Jewellers of Birmingham FOR OVER 40 YEARS - Book Appointment | WhatsApp
Family Jewellers of Birmingham FOR OVER 40 YEARS - Book Appointment | WhatsApp
If you're born in February, you're lucky. Your birthstone isn't just beautiful—it carries centuries of history, meaning, and undeniable elegance. The amethyst birthstone has captivated royalty, healers, and jewellery lovers for thousands of years. But what makes this purple gemstone so special? And more importantly, what color is February's birthstone exactly?
Let's break it down. No fluff. Just everything you need to know about the color stone for February, from its rich violet hues to how you can wear it today.
The February birthstone is amethyst—a stunning variety of quartz that ranges from pale lilac to deep, regal purple. It's one of the most recognized gemstones in the world, prized for its vibrant color and affordability compared to other precious stones.
Amethyst gets its signature purple from trace amounts of iron in the crystal structure, combined with natural irradiation. The result? A gemstone that can shift from soft lavender to intense violet depending on the stone and lighting.
Historically, February wasn't always associated with amethyst. The modern birthstone list, established by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912, officially designated amethyst as the birthstone for February. Before that, different cultures assigned various gemstones to the month. But amethyst won—and for good reason.
Its color symbolizes royalty, spirituality, and calm. In ancient times, only the wealthiest could afford deep purple gemstones. Amethyst became a favorite of bishops, monarchs, and anyone seeking to project power and wisdom.
Today, amethyst birthstone jewellery remains one of the most popular choices for individuals born in February. Whether set in a ring, pendant, or earrings, it's versatile enough for everyday wear yet striking enough for special occasions.
Amethyst has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians used it in amulets and jewellery. The Greeks believed it could prevent intoxication—the name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not drunk." They even carved wine goblets from amethyst, thinking it would keep them sober during celebrations.
Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and amethyst was one of the cardinal gemstones, ranking alongside diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. European royalty wore it in crowns, scepters, and rings. The British Crown Jewels feature several notable amethyst pieces, including a stunning brooch worn by Queen Elizabeth II.
But here's where things get interesting. Until large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century, amethyst was extremely rare and expensive. The Brazilian mines changed everything. Suddenly, amethyst became more accessible, though no less beautiful.
The birthstone's popularity never waned. In fact, it grew. The combination of royal history, spiritual symbolism, and now affordability made amethyst a gemstone for everyone—not just the elite.
Today, amethyst is mined in several countries, including Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Russia. Each location produces stones with slightly different characteristics, which we'll explore later.
Let's get specific. What color is February's birthstone? The answer: purple in all its glory.
But "purple" is too simple. Amethyst comes in a spectrum of shades, each with its own character. You'll find stones in pale lilac, medium violet, deep purple, and even reddish-purple tones.
The most valuable amethysts are deep purple with flashes ofred or blue. These are often called "Siberian" amethysts, even when they don't come from Russia. The term refers to the quality and depth of color rather than the origin.
On the lighter end, you haveRose de France amethyst—a soft, pinkish-lavender variety that's delicate and feminine. It's less common and appeals to those who prefer subtle elegance over bold statements.
The color stone for February can also show color zoning, where different shades appear in the same stone. Skilled jewellers cut amethysts to minimize zoning or use it as a design feature.
Lighting matters too. Amethyst looks different under natural daylight, incandescent bulbs, or LED lighting. In sunlight, the purple appears more vibrant. Under warm indoor lighting, it can take on a softer, more romantic hue.
If you're shopping for amethyst birthstone jewellery, pay attention to these color variations. The "best" color is subjective—it depends on your personal taste and what you'll be wearing the piece with.
Not all amethysts are created equal. The color stone for February comes in several distinct variations, each with a unique appeal.
Deep Purple Amethyst: The classic, most sought-after variety. It's rich, saturated, and commands attention. Deep purple amethyst works beautifully in statement rings and pendants. The color holds up well in larger stones, making it ideal for cocktail rings or bold necklaces.
Lilac Amethyst: Softer and more subtle, lilac amethyst has a gentle, almost pastel quality. It pairs beautifully with white gold or platinum and suits everyday wear. If you want something understated but still special, lilac amethyst is your answer.
Rose de France: This is the pinkish-purple variety. It's named after the pale roses in French gardens and has a romantic, vintage feel. Rose de France amethyst is perfect for delicate jewellery—think stud earrings or dainty pendants.
Banded Amethyst: Some stones show natural color banding, where lighter and darker zones appear in layers. This can create striking visual effects when cut properly. Banded amethyst is often used in unique, artisanal jewellery designs.
Ametrine: Technically a separate stone, ametrine is a natural combination of amethyst and citrine, showing both purple and yellow zones in the same crystal. It's rare and makes for conversation-starting pieces.
The color grading of amethyst birthstone jewellery follows similar principles to other gemstones. The most important factors are saturation (how rich the color is), tone (how light or dark it is), and hue (the exact shade of purple).
At Manna Jewellers, we select amethysts with excellent color consistency and minimal inclusions. Our Birmingham workshop allows us to examine each stone under different lighting conditions before setting it in your jewellery.
Geography plays a huge role in what color is February's birthstone—different locations produce different characteristics.
Brazil: The largest producer of amethyst. Brazilian stones tend to be lighter in color but can include stunning deep purple specimens. The Marabá region is particularly famous for high-quality material.
Uruguay: Known for producing the deepest, most saturated amethysts. Uruguayan stones are smaller on average but pack incredible color intensity. These command premium prices in the market.
Zambia: African amethyst from Zambia has gained popularity in recent years. These stones often show excellent clarity and good color saturation. They're becoming increasingly common in fine jewellery.
Russia: Siberian amethyst, as mentioned earlier, is the gold standard. However, Russian mines are largely depleted. Most "Siberian" amethyst today comes from other locations but matches the quality and color of historical Russian stones.
United States: Arizona, North Carolina, and Maine all produce amethyst. American stones are typically lighter but can be quite attractive, especially for collectors interested in local gems.
The origin affects price, but not always quality. A deep purple Brazilian amethyst can be just as beautiful as a Uruguayan stone. What matters most is the individual gem's color, clarity, and cut.
When you're shopping for the color stone for February, ask about the origin if you're curious, but judge each stone on its own merits. At Manna Jewellers, we source amethysts from multiple origins, selecting only the finest specimens for our collection.
Beyond its beauty, the amethyst birthstone carries deep symbolism. Ancient cultures believed it offered protection, clarity, and spiritual insight.
As mentioned, the Greeks thought it prevented drunkenness. Medieval soldiers wore amethyst amulets, believing it would keep them calm and focused in battle. Christian bishops wore amethyst rings to symbolize their devotion and purity.
In modern times, amethyst is associated with peace, balance, and inner strength. It's thought to promote calm thinking and emotional stability. Whether you believe in crystal healing or not, there's something undeniably soothing about the stone's purple hues.
February babies are said to embody amethyst's qualities: wisdom, sincerity, and spiritual awareness. The birthstone serves as a reminder of these traits.
If you're gifting amethyst birthstone jewellery, you're giving more than a pretty stone. You're offering a symbol of protection, clarity, and thoughtfulness. It's why amethyst remains a popular choice for milestone gifts—birthdays, anniversaries, graduations.
The color stone for February also represents the transition from winter to spring. Purple sits between blue (winter's cold) and red (spring's warmth), making it fitting for the month that bridges seasons.
Choosing amethyst jewellery isn't complicated, but a few guidelines help ensure you get a piece you'll treasure.
Consider the setting: Amethyst looks stunning in white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. White metals emphasize the purple tones, while yellow gold creates a warm, vintage feel. Rose gold complements the softer lilac varieties beautifully.
Think about size: Unlike diamonds, amethyst doesn't dramatically increase in price per carat as it gets larger. This means you can afford bigger stones without breaking the bank. A 5-carat amethyst costs significantly less than a 5-carat diamond, making it perfect for statement pieces.
Clarity matters: While amethyst typically has fewer inclusions than other gemstones, you still want a clean stone. Look for eye-clean specimens—stones with no visible inclusions when viewed with the naked eye.
Cut quality: A well-cut amethyst shows even color distribution and maximum brilliance. Poor cuts can make color zoning more obvious or waste the stone's potential. Standard cuts include oval, cushion, emerald, and round brilliant.
Check for treatments: Most amethyst is unheated and untreated, which is ideal. However, some stones are heat-treated to deepen or alter color. Always ask if the stone has been treated and ensure this is disclosed.
At Manna Jewellers, we guide you through every step of selecting your amethyst birthstone jewellery. Our Birmingham workshop allows us to create custom settings that highlight your stone's unique beauty.
Amethyst engagement rings are gaining popularity, and it's easy to see why. The amethyst birthstone offers a unique alternative to traditional diamond rings while remaining affordable and meaningful.
An amethyst center stonemakes a bold statement. Surrounded by diamonds in a halo setting, it becomes truly spectacular. The purple-and-white combination is classic yet unexpected.
For brides born in February, an amethyst engagement ringadds personal significance. It's your birthstone and your engagement ring in one—a piece that connects to your identity.
Amethyst also works beautifully in three-stone rings, where it's flanked by diamonds or other colored gemstones. The contrast creates visual interest while keeping the amethyst as the focal point.
Beyond engagement rings, amethyst shines in pendants, earrings, and bracelets. A simple amethyst pendant on a delicate chain works for everyday elegance. Drop earrings featuring amethyst and diamonds transition seamlessly from office to evening.
The color stone for February pairs particularly well with diamonds. The sparkle of diamonds enhances amethyst's richness, while the purple provides a colorful counterpoint to diamonds' brilliance.
At Manna Jewellers, we've created countless custom amethyst pieces over our 40+ years in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter. From engagement rings to anniversary gifts, we understand how to showcase this versatile gemstone.
Amethyst is relatively durable—ranking 7 on the Mohs hardness scale—but it still needs proper care to maintain its beauty.
Daily wear: Amethyst can handle everyday wear in rings, pendants, and earrings. However, avoid wearing it during activities that could cause impact or scratching. Remove amethyst rings before heavy lifting, gardening, or other strenuous activities.
Cleaning: Warm water and mild soap are sufficient for cleaning amethyst. Use a soft brush to gently remove dirt and oils. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners unless you're certain your stone hasn't been treated or has no fractures.
Storage: Store amethyst jewellery separately from harder gemstones like diamonds and sapphires, which can scratch it. A fabric-lined jewellery box or individual pouches work well.
Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade amethyst's color over time. When you're not wearing your jewellery, keep it away from windowsills or other sun-exposed areas.
Professional care: Have your amethyst birthstone jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected annually. A jeweller can check for loose settings, worn prongs, and other issues before they become problems.
At Manna Jewellers, we offer professional cleaning and repair services. We understand the specific needs of amethyst and can ensure your piece remains in excellent condition for years to come.
While amethyst is the traditional color stone for February, it's not the only purple gemstone available. Understanding the differences helps you make informed decisions.
Tanzanite: This blue-purple stone from Tanzania is rarer and more expensive than amethyst. It shows different colors depending on the viewing angle (pleochroism). Tanzanite is softer than amethyst, so it requires extra care.
Purple Sapphire: Part of the corundum family, purple sapphire is much harder and more durable than amethyst. It's also significantly more expensive. The purple in sapphire tends to be more muted, or grayish, than amethyst's vibrant violet.
Iolite: Also called "water sapphire," iolite displays violet-blue hues. It's less expensive than amethyst but also less common in jewellery. Iolite has strong pleochroism, appearing different colors from different angles.
Purple Spinel: Rare and beautiful, purple spinel offers excellent durability and brilliance. It's harder to find than amethyst and commands higher prices.
For most people seeking a February birthstone, amethyst remains the top choice. It offers the perfect combination of beauty, symbolism, and value. The other purple gemstones serve as alternatives for those wanting something different or complementary.
The amethyst birthstone has graced some of history's most notable jewellery pieces.
The British Crown Jewels include several magnificent amethyst pieces. The Kent Demi-Parure features a stunning amethyst-and-diamond necklace and earrings set, created for the Duchess of Kent in the 19th century.
Queen Elizabeth IIowned multiple amethyst pieces, including a large brooch often worn during public appearances. The deep purple complemented her signature colorful wardrobe.
Catherine the Great of Russiawas known for her love of amethyst. Her collection included elaborate pieces featuring large, high-quality stones set with diamonds and other gemstones.
In religious contexts, bishops' rings often feature amethyst. The tradition dates back centuries, with the purple symbolizing spiritual authority and devotion.
Modern celebrities have embraced amethyst too. Jennifer Lopez, Cate Blanchett, and other A-listers have worn amethyst jewellery on red carpets, proving the color stone for February remains relevant and stylish.
These historical and contemporary examples show amethyst's enduring appeal across centuries and cultures.
At Manna Jewellers, we offer a wide range of amethyst birthstone jewellery designs, each crafted with our signature Birmingham quality.
Rings: From delicate solitaires to bold cocktail rings, ouramethyst ringcollection includes something for every style. We particularly love creating halo settings that surround the amethyst with diamonds, enhancing its purple brilliance.
Pendants: Simple and sophisticated, amethyst pendants work for daily wear or special occasions. We offer both modern geometric designs and classic vintage-inspired pieces.
Earrings: Amethyst studs provide everyday elegance, while drop earrings make stunning statement pieces. We can create matched sets or asymmetrical designs based on your preference.
Bracelets: Tennis bracelets featuring amethyst and diamond combinations offer wrist-worthy luxury. We also create charm bracelets featuring amethyst, the February birthstone.
Each piece is handcrafted in our Birmingham workshop by skilled artisans who understand how to showcase amethyst's beauty. We use only high-quality stones and settings, ensuring your jewellery lasts for generations.
One of our specialties at Manna Jewellers is bespoke jewellery design. If you have a vision for the perfect amethyst birthstone piece, we bring it to life.
The process starts with a consultation. We discuss your ideas, preferences, and budget. Then our designers create sketches and CAD renderings showing how your piece will look.
Once you approve the design, our craftsmen begin work. They select the perfect amethyst, ensuring it meets our strict quality standards. The setting is crafted by hand, with attention to every detail.
Custom design allows complete control over your jewellery. Choose the exact shade of purple you want, the metal type, any accent stones, and the overall style. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personal taste.
We've created custom amethyst engagement rings, anniversary pendants, family heirloom pieces, and more. Our 40+ years of experience in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter means we handle even complex designs with confidence.
Whether you're designing a piece from scratch or remodeling an existing jewellery item to include amethyst, we guide you through every step.
Amethyst ranks 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it reasonably durable but not indestructible.
For daily-worn rings, choose protective settings like bezels or halos. These settings surround the stone with metal, reducing the risk of chips or scratches. Prong settings work well, too, if the prongs are substantial and well-maintained.
Pendants and earrings face less wear and tear, making amethyst an excellent choice. You can wear these pieces daily without significant durability concerns.
Avoid wearing amethyst rings during activities that could cause impact—such as cleaning, sports, or heavy lifting. Remove them before bed and during showers to minimize exposure to chemicals and potential damage.
With proper care, amethyst birthstone jewellery lasts for decades. Many vintage amethyst pieces from the Victorian and Edwardian eras remain in excellent condition, proving the stone's longevity.
If you do scratch or chip your amethyst, professional jewellers can often repolish or recut the stone to restore its appearance.
The amethyst birthstone combines beautifully with other gems, creating dynamic, colorful jewellery.
Amethyst and diamonds: The classic combination. White diamonds enhance amethyst's purple, creating an elegant contrast. This pairing works in rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets.
Amethyst and citrine: Both are quartz varieties, so they share similar properties. The purple and yellow combination is vibrant and energetic. Citrine is November's birthstone, making this pairing meaningful for couples born in these months.
Amethyst and pearls: Sophisticated and feminine, this combination suits vintage-inspired designs. The soft luster of pearls complements amethyst's rich color.
Amethyst and blue topaz: Cool-toned and harmonious, these stones create serene, calming jewellery. Both are affordable, allowing for generous use in designs.
Amethyst and emerald: Bold and unexpected, this pairing creates high-impact statement pieces. The purple and green contrast is striking.
Mixed gemstone jewellery allows personal expression and creativity. At Manna Jewellers, we regularly create custom pieces incorporating amethyst with other stones, designing one-of-a-kind jewellery that tells your story.
Shopping for someone born in February? Amethyst birthstone jewellery makes a thoughtful, personal gift.
For her: A delicate amethyst pendant on a fine chain suits everyday wear. Amethyst stud earrings offer timeless elegance. For milestone birthdays, consider a statement cocktail ring featuring a large, high-quality stone.
For him: Men's jewellery with amethyst is less common but increasingly popular. A signet ring with an amethyst inlay, cufflinks featuring small amethyst cabochons, or a tie pin with an amethyst accent all work well.
For milestone anniversaries: If your anniversary falls in February or you want to commemorate your partner's birth month, custom amethyst jewellery carries extra meaning. An eternity band alternating amethyst and diamonds, or a redesigned family piece incorporating amethyst, creates a lasting tribute.
For children: A simple amethyst pendant or small earrings introduce children to their birthstone. As they grow, they can add more elaborate pieces to their collection.
The color stone for February suits all ages and styles. From minimalist modern designs to ornate vintage-inspired pieces, there's an amethyst jewellery option for everyone.
Amethyst continues evolving in contemporary jewellery design. Current trends include:
Geometric cuts: Modern lapidaries cut amethyst into hexagons, triangles, and asymmetrical shapes. These unconventional cuts appeal to younger buyers seeking unique pieces.
Raw and rough amethyst: Natural, uncut amethyst crystals are being incorporated into jewellery. These organic designs emphasize the stone's natural beauty and create boho-chic aesthetics.
Layering pieces: Delicate amethyst necklaces designed for layering with other chains reflect current fashion trends. Multiple thin chains with small amethyst pendants create depth and visual interest.
Mixed metals: Combining white, yellow, and rose gold in one piece adds dimension. Amethyst works beautifully with this trend, its purple complementing all three metals.
Sustainable jewellery: Ethical sourcing and recycled metals matter to modern consumers. Amethyst, generally mined with less environmental impact than some other gemstones, fits this trend well.
Social media, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, influences trends in amethyst birthstone jewellery. Celebrity endorsements and influencer content introduce new styles and increase Amethyst's visibility.
At Manna Jewellers, we stay current with trends while honoring traditional craftsmanship. Our designs bridge classic elegance and modern aesthetics.
When you're investing in amethyst birthstone jewellery, the jeweller you choose matters as much as the stone itself.
Manna Jewellers has served Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter for over 40 years. We're a family-run business with deep roots in our community. This longevity reflects our commitment to quality, service, and integrity.
Our craftsmen work on-site, giving us complete control over every aspect of production. We personally select each amethyst, ensuring it meets our exacting standards. We don't outsource—everything is made in our Birmingham workshop.
We offerbespoke design services, creating unique pieces that reflect your vision. Whether you're designing from scratch or modifying an existing design, we provide expert guidance throughout the process.
Ourrepair and maintenance services keep your jewellery looking its best for years. We offer professional cleaning, prong tightening, repolishing, and more.
When you visit Manna Jewellers, you're not just another transaction. We take time to understand your needs, answer questions, and ensure you're completely satisfied. Our goal is building lasting relationships, not making quick sales.
Located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, we're part of a centuries-old tradition of British craftsmanship. When you choose Manna Jewellers, you're supporting local artisans and continuing this proud heritage.
The amethyst birthstone embodies everything a gemstone should be—beautiful, meaningful, and accessible. Whether you prefer deep royal purple or soft lilac, amethyst offers options for every taste and budget.
Understanding that the color of February's birthstone means appreciating the full spectrum of purple hues this versatile gem offers. From Siberian-grade deep violet to delicate Rose de France, each shade tells a different story.
The color stone for February works in any jewellery type—engagement rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets. Its durability and affordability make it practical for daily wear, while its rich symbolism adds emotional depth to every piece.
At Manna Jewellers, we're passionate about helping you find or create the perfect amethyst birthstone jewellery. Our Birmingham workshop, family heritage, and commitment to craftsmanship ensure you receive a piece you'll treasure forever.
Whether you're treating yourself, gifting a loved one, or marking a special milestone, amethyst birthstone jewellery from Manna Jewellers connects you to centuries of tradition while expressing your unique style.
Discover why amethyst remains one of the world's most beloved gemstones—and why Manna Jewellers has been Birmingham's trusted jeweller for over four decades.
The birthstone for February is amethyst, a purple variety of quartz. Amethyst ranges from pale lilac to deep violet and has been treasured for thousands of years for its beauty and symbolism.
February's birthstone color is purple, specifically ranging from light lavender to deep violet. The most valued amethysts are deep purple with hints of red or blue. Rose de France amethyst shows pinkish-purple tones.
No, amethyst is one of the most affordable gemstones. Even large, high-quality stones remain reasonably priced compared to diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds. This makes amethyst accessible for various budgets while
Gemstones and diamonds rely entirely on their settings for protection. When the surrounding metal wears down, stones become vulnerable to movement, chipping or loss. Proper care isn’t just about avoiding wear in tricky situations; it’s about managing it wisely so small issues don’t turn into major repairs. Learn how 10 simple steps can help you to enjoy your jewellery for longer.
