Fall in Love with Amethyst this February

February, known for Valentine’s day and romance, is also known for being the official birthstone month of amethyst. Considered to be one of the most popular and well-known semi-precious gems, amethyst has been revered for centuries by historians and jewelry lovers all over the world. Although it is notorious for its deep purple color, amethyst also contains a wide array of hues ranging from soft lilac to vibrant violet - some are even yellow, orange, light green or clear depending on its prolonged exposure to light or radiation. At Long’s, we have an extensive estate collection of fascinatingly exquisite vintage amethyst pieces for every style!

14K Yellow Gold Amethyst and Diamond Bangle
ESBR3954 || $625

The word Amethyst derives from the Greek word “Amethystos” which translates literally to “remedy against drunkenness”, a-“not”, methyein – “to be drunk”, and methy – “wine”. The ancient Romans and Greeks believed having an amethyst would ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus, the God of wine. It was understood that as long as you were wearing an amethyst, you could drink all night and stay sober. This belief is reinforced by the connection of wine to the amethyst’s notorious range of purple hues. Ancient Greeks would even stud their drinking goblets with Amethyst, believing themselves to be immune not only from intoxication but from over-zealousness and passion. Catholic Bishops would also wear amethyst rings, protecting themselves from mystical intoxication, believing that if kissed, it would spare others of intoxication and keep the wearer grounded in spiritual thought. The 14K yellow gold bangle seen in the video above is a flexible bracelet set with two pear shaped amethysts, further set with eight single cut diamonds.

1. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst Pendant
ESCH2038 || $360 
2. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst Necklace
ESNK5393 || $315

It makes sense that the amethyst is included on both the traditional and modern lists of birthstones for the month of February - the month of the most romantic holiday of the year - as it has widely been known as a symbol of love, happiness and sincerity. St. Valentine, a 3rd century Roman Saint, commemorated on February 14th, was largely associated with the tradition of love, and was said to have worn an amethyst ring engraved with the image of cupid. Often referred to as the “couple’s stone”, this popular purple gemstone gives deeper meaning to relationships over time and a more soulful communion between two people. It is said that the amethyst can be worn as an engagement or eternity ring for fidelity or as a necklace/locket to call back a lost love. Here we have a 14K yellow gold amethyst pendant set with an oval cut amethyst and a 14K yellow gold necklace bezel set with three round cut amethysts joined by a fancy link and box chain.

1. 1. 1. 18K White Gold Amethyst and Diamond Ring
      ESNK7660 || $680 || SHOP NOW
      2. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst Ring
      ESRG7625 || $250
      3. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst and Diamond Ring
      ESRG7666 || $350

The well-known mineral and gemstone is most commonly used for jewelry, due to its beautiful color, natural abundance and high durability. It can be found in many locations around the world but the primary sources for this gemstone are located in South America with mines in Brazil and Uruguay . Fine-quality amethyst is also found in parts of Mexico, Italy, Germany, Zambia, Canada, and parts of the U.S. like Maine, Colorado, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. The gorgeous and vibrant deep purple gem also complements both warm and cool colors so it looks great with both yellow and white metals as well as diamonds like these three rings found in our vintage & estate collection, each with amethyst, each very different looks, yet equally stunning. The first ring is a 18K White Gold amethyst and diamond ring and the second a 14K yellow gold ring set with a round cut amethyst. The third is a 14K yellow gold ring set with a heart shaped cabochon amethyst further set with a full cut diamond.

1. 1. 1. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst and Diamond Earrings
      ESER6474 || $600
      2. 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst and Diamond Earrings
      ESER6772 || $145 

Ruled by the planet Jupiter, amethyst is also the stone for those born under the Pisces zodiac sign from February 19th to March 20th. A water sign, Pisces is characterized by empathy and selflessness. Pisces are known to be very friendly, intuitive and artistic.And if your birthday is during February, you share a birthstone with the likes of Emily Blunt, Jennifer Anniston, Drew Barrymore, Mia Farrow, Rashida Jones, and Christie Brinkley. Above you will see two pairs of adorable amethyst earrings sold at Long’s, the first, a 14K yellow gold pair, prong set with two round amethysts, further set with six full cut diamonds and the second pair, 14K yellow gold earrings set with two oval amethysts and two full cut diamonds.

Which February birthstone piece is your favorite? Let us know in the comment section below! Browse our full vintage & estate online collection or visit us in stores to see more vintage and estate birthstone jewelry!