February's Birthstone
Amethyst, the purple variety of quartz, is the birthstone of February and comes from the Greek word "αμέθυστος" (amethystos) which means "not intoxicated." The Greeks and Romans believed that amethyst protected its wearer from the effects of Bacchus, helping maintain a quick-wit and sharp mind.
For centuries, amethyst was held to be one of the most precious gemstones, often favored by royalty. In fact, there are 7 amethysts in St. Edward's Crown, which is used at the coronation of the British Monarch. It wasn’t until the discovery of more abundant supplies of amethyst that it came within reach of the average consumer.