Birthstone for February is the stunning amethyst—a gemstone renowned for its rich purple hues and deep symbolic meaning. According to the American Gem Society (AGS), amethyst has been a top choice for February birthstone jewelry for decades, with sales of amethyst pieces increasing by 28% in the month of February 2024 alone. The Customized Jewelry Market, valued at USD 36.98B in 2025, is projected to reach USD 104.89B by 2032, growing at a 16% CAGR. More than just a beautiful accessory, the birthstone for February carries a legacy of spiritual significance, healing properties, and timeless elegance, making it a meaningful gift for anyone born in this month or a thoughtful way to celebrate February milestones. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about amethyst, the birthstone for February—from its history and meaning to styling tips, gifting ideas, and care instructions.
What Is the Birthstone for February?
Amethyst: The Official Birthstone for February
The official birthstone for February is amethyst, a variety of quartz known for its distinctive purple color. Amethyst gets its hue from trace amounts of iron and aluminum in its crystal structure, with shades ranging from pale lavender and lilac to deep violet and royal purple. The most prized amethysts—often used in high-end birthstone jewelry—boast a rich, saturated purple color with subtle red or blue undertones. Unlike some other birthstones, amethyst is widely available and relatively affordable, making the birthstone for February accessible to jewelry lovers of all budgets.
A Brief History of Amethyst as February’s Birthstone
The association between amethyst and February dates back centuries. The first recorded birthstone lists, such as the 1st-century AD "Breastplate of Aaron" in the Bible, included amethyst as a sacred gemstone. Later, in the 1912 official birthstone list established by the National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America), amethyst was formally designated as the birthstone for February. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans also revered amethyst: the Greeks believed it protected against intoxication (the name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not drunk"), while the Romans used it in royal jewelry to symbolize power and wealth.
Meaning and Symbolism of the Birthstone for February (Amethyst)
Spiritual and Emotional Meanings
The birthstone for February is steeped in spiritual and emotional symbolism. Amethyst is often associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. It’s believed to soothe stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, making it a popular gemstone for those seeking inner peace. Spiritually, amethyst is linked to the third eye and crown chakras, thought to enhance intuition, creativity, and spiritual awareness. For February-born individuals, wearing their birthstone is said to align with their natural strengths—compassion, creativity, and a thoughtful nature.
Cultural and Historical Symbolism
Throughout history, the birthstone for February has held various cultural meanings. In medieval Europe, amethyst was worn by bishops and clergy as a symbol of piety, purity, and spiritual wisdom. It was also used in burial jewelry to protect the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. In Egyptian culture, amethyst was associated with the goddess Isis, representing protection and healing. Today, these symbolic roots endure, with amethyst (birthstone for February) still seen as a gemstone of protection, wisdom, and lasting love.
Popular Styles of Birthstone for February (Amethyst) Jewelry
Minimalist Amethyst Jewelry
Minimalist birthstone for February jewelry is perfect for everyday wear. Think small amethyst stud earrings, delicate amethyst pendant necklaces (on thin gold or silver chains), or dainty amethyst rings. These pieces showcase the gemstone’s natural beauty without being overpowering, making them ideal for work, school, or casual outings. Minimalist amethyst jewelry is also a great choice for those who prefer subtle, understated accessories.
Statement Amethyst Jewelry
For special occasions, statement birthstone for February jewelry takes center stage. This includes large amethyst cocktail rings, chandelier earrings with cascading amethysts, or bold amethyst bracelets with intricate metalwork. Statement amethyst pieces often pair the gemstone with other metals (like yellow gold or sterling silver) or complementary gemstones (like diamonds or white topaz) to enhance its purple hue. These pieces are perfect for February birthdays, anniversaries, or formal events.
Vintage-Inspired Amethyst Jewelry
Vintage-inspired birthstone for February jewelry draws inspiration from eras like the Art Deco or Victorian periods. These pieces feature amethysts set in intricate, ornate metalwork—think filigree designs, geometric patterns, or old-world settings. Vintage amethyst jewelry often has a timeless, romantic appeal, making it a unique gift for anyone who loves classic style. Many vintage pieces also have historical charm, adding extra sentimentality to the birthstone for February.
How to Wear Birthstone for February (Amethyst) Jewelry
Styling for Everyday Casual Looks
For everyday casual wear, keep your birthstone for February jewelry simple. Pair amethyst stud earrings with a white t-shirt and jeans, or a delicate amethyst necklace with a cozy sweater and leggings. If you want to layer jewelry, pair a thin amethyst bracelet with other minimalist pieces (like a silver chain bracelet or a small pearl bracelet) for a polished, layered look. The key is to let the amethyst’s purple hue add a subtle pop of color to your outfit.
Elevating Formal Outfits
To elevate formal outfits with birthstone for February jewelry, choose statement pieces that complement your attire. A pair of amethyst chandelier earrings looks stunning with a strapless or off-the-shoulder gown, while a bold amethyst cocktail ring adds glamour to a little black dress. For a cohesive look, match the metal of your amethyst jewelry to your outfit’s accents—e.g., gold amethyst jewelry with warm-toned dresses, silver with cool-toned outfits. Remember to keep other accessories minimal to let the amethyst shine.
Mixing and Matching with Other Gemstones
The birthstone for February (amethyst) pairs beautifully with other gemstones. For a classic look, pair amethyst with diamonds or white topaz—their sparkle enhances the amethyst’s purple hue. For a colorful, bohemian vibe, mix amethyst with other colored gemstones like peridot (August birthstone) or citrine (November birthstone). You can also mix amethyst with different metals: silver brings out the cool tones of pale amethyst, while gold complements the warm undertones of deep purple amethyst.
Birthstone for February (Amethyst): Perfect Gift Ideas
Gifts for February-Born Loved Ones
The birthstone for February is a thoughtful gift for anyone born in February. For a personal touch, choose customized amethyst jewelry—like a pendant engraved with their name, initials, or birth date. A pair of amethyst stud earrings is a great gift for teenagers or young adults, while a vintage amethyst locket (with a photo inside) is perfect for family members. For a luxurious gift, opt for a solid gold amethyst bracelet or a diamond-accented amethyst necklace.
Milestone Gifts Featuring Amethyst
Amethyst (birthstone for February) is also a great choice for milestone gifts that fall in February—like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations. A personalized amethyst bracelet with a milestone date engraved on it is a meaningful way to celebrate. For a 6th wedding anniversary (which traditionally uses amethyst), a pair of amethyst hoop earrings or a amethyst pendant necklace is a perfect gift. Amethyst gifts are not only beautiful but also carry symbolic meaning, making them memorable for years to come.
Budget-Friendly Amethyst Gift Options
You don’t have to spend a fortune to give a beautiful birthstone for February gift. Budget-friendly options include amethyst jewelry in sterling silver (instead of gold), small amethyst charms (to add to a charm bracelet), or amethyst beaded bracelets. Many jewelers also offer lab-created amethyst jewelry, which has the same appearance as natural amethyst but at a lower price point. These options allow you to give a meaningful birthstone gift without breaking the bank.
How to Clean and Care for Birthstone for February (Amethyst) Jewelry
Daily Cleaning Routine
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your birthstone for February jewelry looking its best. After each wear, wipe the amethyst and metal setting with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove dirt, oil, and sweat. This simple step prevents buildup that can make the gemstone look dull. Pay special attention to the area around the amethyst setting, as dirt can accumulate there.
Deep Cleaning Tips
For a deeper clean (every 1–2 weeks), clean your birthstone for February jewelry with warm water and mild dish soap. Fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of soap, then soak the jewelry for 10–15 minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the amethyst and setting, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Pat dry with a clean microfiber cloth and let it air dry completely before wearing or storing.
Avoiding Damage to Amethyst
Amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone (7 on the Mohs scale), but it can still be damaged if not cared for properly. To protect your birthstone for February jewelry: 1) Remove it before swimming (chlorine can damage the gemstone and metal), showering, or doing household chores (harsh chemicals can dull the amethyst). 2) Store it in a separate jewelry box or pouch to avoid scratching it against other jewelry. 3) Avoid exposing it to extreme heat (like direct sunlight or hot water), as this can fade the amethyst’s purple color.
Where to Buy Birthstone for February (Amethyst) Jewelry
Reputable Online Retailers
Online retailers offer a wide selection of birthstone for February jewelry, with the convenience of shopping from home. Look for reputable online jewelers like Blue Nile, James Allen, or Etsy (for handmade pieces) that offer detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and return policies. Many online retailers also offer customization options (like engraving) to make your amethyst gift more personal. When buying online, ensure the retailer provides information about the amethyst’s quality (like color and clarity) and metal purity.
Brick-and-Mortar Jewelry Stores
Brick-and-mortar jewelry stores (like Tiffany & Co., Kay Jewelers, or local family-owned shops) allow you to see and touch the birthstone for February jewelry in person. This lets you examine the amethyst’s color and clarity, feel the weight of the jewelry, and try it on (if buying for yourself). In-store jewelers can also provide personalized advice on styles, sizes, and care. Many stores offer gift wrapping and engraving services, making the shopping experience more special for gifting.
Tips for Choosing Quality Amethyst Jewelry
When buying birthstone for February jewelry, look for these quality indicators: 1) Color: Choose amethyst with a rich, saturated purple color (avoid pale or dull stones). 2) Clarity: Look for amethysts with minimal inclusions (flaws) visible to the naked eye. 3) Cut: A well-cut amethyst will have even facets and reflect light beautifully. 4) Setting: Ensure the amethyst is securely set in a durable metal (like sterling silver, 14k gold, or 18k gold) to prevent it from falling out. 5) Certification: Ask for a certificate of authenticity if buying high-end amethyst jewelry.
Conclusion: Celebrate with the Birthstone for February (Amethyst)
The birthstone for February—amethyst—is more than just a beautiful gemstone. It’s a symbol of calmness, wisdom, and lasting love, with a rich history and timeless appeal. Whether you’re buying it for a February-born loved one, celebrating a February milestone, or adding to your own jewelry collection, amethyst is a versatile and meaningful choice. From minimalist everyday pieces to bold statement jewelry, there’s a birthstone for February design to suit every style and budget. With proper care, your amethyst jewelry will be cherished for years to come, serving as a constant reminder of the joy and significance of February.
Ready to find the perfect birthstone for February (amethyst) jewelry? Start by considering the recipient’s style, your budget, and any personalization options to make the gift unique. If you have questions about choosing the right amethyst piece or caring for your jewelry, share them in the comments below—we’d love to help! For more birthstone guides, jewelry styling tips, and gift ideas, subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest trends and insights.
