February
February's birthstone is amethyst — that noble purple is a symbol of clarity and temperance, and its Greek name even means "not drunk".
February’s birthstone is amethyst — that noble purple is a symbol of clarity and temperance, and its Greek name even means “not drunk”. Once ranked with the great gems, it is now affordable — a stone with pedigree, and within reach.
About the February Birthstone
Amethyst is February’s modern and traditional birthstone, purple quartz, Mohs hardness 7 with no cleavage, durable and easy to wear. Before the 19th century it ranked with diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald among the “five great gems”; a great Brazilian find brought it down to a semi-precious stone — not worse, just affordable.
The Meaning of This Month
Amethyst symbolises clarity, calm, temperance and wisdom. Its name comes from the Greek amethystos, “not drunk” — the Greeks believed it kept one sober and clear; that purple has long belonged to royalty and the Church. To give it to someone born in February is to wish “a clear mind and a calm, self-possessed heart”.
History & Culture
The birthstone tradition traces to the twelve gems of the Breastplate of Aaron, matched to the months and zodiac, and standardised into the modern list by the American jewellers’ association in 1912. Amethyst’s royal purple was once as prized as ruby and sapphire in medieval Europe — affordable only to royalty and the Church — until the great mines of Brazil and Uruguay brought it into ordinary homes.
The Lists
| List | February birthstone |
|---|---|
| Modern (1912 · US) | Amethyst |
| Traditional | Amethyst |
| Zodiac | Aquarius (to 2/18) · Pisces (from 2/19) |
Explore this month's stones
FAQ
What is February's birthstone?
Amethyst. The modern and traditional lists agree.
Why does amethyst mean "not drunk"?
Its name comes from the Greek amethystos, "not drunk"; the ancient Greeks believed it kept the wearer clear-headed and sober.
What does amethyst symbolise?
Clarity, calm, temperance and wisdom; long a stone of nobility and the spirit.
Does amethyst fade?
Prolonged direct sunlight pales the purple, irreversibly; daily wear is fine, but keep it off the windowsill.
Which zodiac signs go with February?
Aquarius (to February 18) and Pisces (from February 19).