Prized for its deep purple color and its hardness, the stunning Amethyst stone is the birthstone for February.
Whether quarry-mined or created in a laboratory, this stand-out stone will be remarked on wherever the wearer goes. The name amethyst is derived from ‘amethystos’, which is the Ancient Greek word for ‘sober’ and there was a belief that the stone would protect its owner from drunkenness. The Ancient Greeks wore amethyst and even made drinking vessels from it with the belief that it would prevent them from becoming intoxicated!
The stone represents moderation and is believed to make the wearer more grounded, calmer and actually strengthen relationships. It was seen as such an important stone in past times that it was only once worn by monarchs and used as a mystical aid in diplomacy.
Amethyst is regularly referenced throughout history and medieval European soldiers wore amulets made from amethyst as protection in battle, believing that it would keep them calm. Christian Bishops often wore an episcopal ring which featured an amethyst.
The vibrant violet color is a real talking point and the shades can vary from a light pink violet to a deeper purple. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz (SiO2) and its violet color is due to irradiation, iron impurities and the presence of trace elements.
Amethyst is produced widely in Brazil where it originates from volcanic rocks. It is also found in South Korea, Austria, Russia and across the United States.
The amethyst birthstone Claddagh ring from Rings from Ireland is available in silver, 10k and 14k yellow gold and also in 10k and 14k white gold. There is also a matching set of elegant Claddagh earrings with amethyst stones in silver, 10k and 14k yellow gold and also in 10k and 14k white gold.
If you would like to complete this beautiful set of jewelry and add to the ring and earrings, there is also a stunning Claddagh pendant with amethyst stone again available in a choice of silver, 10k and 14k yellow gold and also in 10k and 14k white gold.