February is the month in which we celebrate love and the rich heritage of the African-American community. We also celebrate the birthdays of those born this month with the birthstone Amethyst. Amethyst belongs to the Quartz family but is the most rare of all Quartz minerals. With deep purple hues, Amethyst is a stunning gemstone with a rich history.

In Ancient Greece, Amethyst was associated with the God Bacchus (the God of Wine) and was believed to prevent intoxication to those wearing it. Amethyst in Ancient Greek means “not drunk.” Today, the power of Amethyst is thought to bring a clear head and quick wit.

Amethyst has been used in Jewelry for thousands of years starting with the Egyptians and was considered one of the most precious gemstones until large deposits were found in the 1800’s and it was downgraded to a semi-precious gemstone. Mined in Brazil, Zambia and all over North America, but the most rare is Siberian Amethyst whose mine in Russia has been exhausted. The hue and clarity of the Amethyst can give clues about where it was mined with Brazilian gems having less inclusions and African gems having a deeper hue.

Purple, being the color of royalty, is commonly used for royal accessories and we do see a lot of Amethyst in crown jewels but it is an affordable gemstone which makes it accessible to the masses as well. Amethyst is an inclusive gemstone.