Okay, let's settle this once and for all: what birthstone is February actually known for? If you're a February baby, got a loved one born this month, or just love gemstones, you're probably wondering about the February birthstone. Spoiler alert – it's that gorgeous purple gem called amethyst. But honestly, there's way more to it than just naming the stone.
I remember buying my first piece years ago thinking all amethyst was the same. Big mistake. Some looked dull in daylight, others faded over time. I wish someone had laid out the real details back then. So whether you're picking jewelry, curious about meanings, or just Googling "birthstone february what is it?", stick with me. We're diving deep beyond the basics.
The Purple Powerhouse: Amethyst as February's Birthstone
So, what is the birthstone for February? Unanimously, across pretty much all traditions, it's amethyst. This stunning quartz variety ranges from pale lilac to deep violet. Why purple? Ancient Greeks believed it prevented drunkenness ("amethystos" means "not intoxicated"). Royals loved it too – Catherine the Great and Egyptian pharaohs rocked amethyst jewelry.
But here's something cool: February actually has two modern birthstones. Since 1952, bloodstone joined the party. It's a dark green jasper dotted with red flecks. Interesting, right? Though let's be real – when people ask "what birthstone is february" most expect the purple answer.
Amethyst Color Variations & What They Mean
Not all amethyst is created equal. The hue depends heavily on iron impurities and natural radiation exposure. Top-grade gems show strong reddish-purple under incandescent light. Siberian amethyst has that coveted deep violet with red flashes – super rare now. African amethyst tends to be lighter, while Zambian stones often have blue undertones.
| Origin | Typical Color | Special Features | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siberian (Russia) | Deep violet with reddish flashes | Highest color saturation | Extremely Rare |
| Zambian (Africa) | Rich purple with blue undertones | Excellent clarity | Common (High Quality) |
| Brazilian | Light to medium lilac/purple | Often large crystals | Very Common |
| Uruguayan | Deep purple, sometimes opaque | Geode specialist | Common |
Fun fact? Heat-treated citrine was often cheaper amethyst baked in ovens. That bright yellow? Originally purple!
Why Amethyst? Meanings and Symbolism Explained
Alright, so what is february's birthstone supposed to represent? Beyond the Greek anti-hangover myth, amethyst carries centuries of meaning:
- Peace & Calm: Medieval soldiers wore it believing it kept them level-headed (personally, I sleep better with mine on the nightstand)
- Spiritual Connection: Many cultures link it to higher consciousness
- Sobriety: Still a symbol of clear thinking today
- Protection: Ancient talisman against negative energy
Modern crystal healers claim benefits too – stress relief, improved intuition. Take that with a grain of salt, obviously. But even skeptics like me admit its calming color psychology is legit.
Bloodstone: February's Alternative Birthstone
Since many ask "what birthstone is february" expecting alternatives, let's cover bloodstone. This dark green chalcedony with red spots resembles, well, blood drops. Ancient lore claims it formed when Christ's blood fell on green jasper. Warmer climates favored it over amethyst historically. Meanings include courage and strength – warriors carved seals from it. Tough stone too (Mohs 6.5-7), great for men's rings.
Pro Tip: Bloodstone looks best in daylight. Those red flecks pop against the dark green base. Under artificial light? Often looks muddy.
Buying Amethyst: What You Absolutely Need to Know
Thinking of buying February birthstone jewelry? Brace yourself. Quality varies wildly. I've seen mall kiosks sell $20 amethyst rings fading to gray in months. Don't be that person.
The Price Spectrum (Real Talk)
| Quality Grade | Color Description | Clarity | Price Range (Per Carat) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial | Pale to light purple, uneven | Visible inclusions | $2 - $10 | Costume jewelry, beads |
| Good | Medium purple, slight zoning | Minor visible flaws | $10 - $30 | Everyday pendants |
| Fine | Deep violet, strong reddish flash | Eye-clean to loupe-clean | $30 - $80 | Rings, statement pieces |
| Top Gem (Siberian) | Deep reddish-violet, no zoning | Loupe-clean | $80 - $200+ | Investment/heirloom |
See that "Top Gem" tier? Siberian material is crazy rare now. Most "Siberian" amethyst sold today is mislabeled. Ask for origin certification.
Synthetic vs. Natural Amethyst
Lab-created amethyst has identical chemical properties to natural. Even experts need tools to differentiate. What is the birthstone for February if it's fake? Still amethyst – just cheaper and ethically clearer. Pros and cons:
- Synthetic Pros: Perfect color consistency, no mining impact, affordable ($5-15/ct)
- Synthetic Cons: Lacks natural inclusions, feels "too perfect" for collectors
- Natural Pros: Unique imperfections, investment potential, geological wonder
- Natural Cons: Often included, color zoning possible, ethical sourcing questions
Personal opinion? For everyday jewelry, synthetics are smart. For special pieces? Natural every time.
Keeping Your Amethyst Beautiful: Care Guide
Amethyst is quartz (Mohs 7), so decently tough. But sun exposure? Its worst enemy. Left on a windowsill, deep purple fades to yellowish-gray. Saw this happen to my aunt's ring – tragic. Other enemies:
| Risk Factor | Potential Damage | Prevention Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sunlight/UV Exposure | Permanent color fading | Store in dark box; avoid daylight displays |
| High Heat (>300°F/150°C) | Color alteration to citrine/yellow | Remove before baking/hairdryers |
| Harsh Chemicals | Surface etching, dullness | Take off jewelry when cleaning |
| Ultrasonic Cleaners | Fracture risk in included stones | Use only for high-clarity pieces |
Cleaning? Simple: Warm soapy water + soft brush. Dry thoroughly. Store separately to avoid scratches.
Design Ideas for February Birthstone Jewelry
Amethyst suits almost any style. Victorian? Rose cuts in yellow gold. Modern? Geometric solitaires. Bloodstone works great in signet rings or cufflinks. Popular settings include:
- Solitaire Rings: Oval/cushion cuts in white gold (classic!)
- Halo Designs: Amethyst center with diamond accents
- Drop Earrings: Zambian amethyst pairs beautifully with moonstones
- Men's Bloodstone
Intaglio carving, tungsten rings
Budget hack: Look for "Ametrine" – natural amethyst-citrine combo stones. Gorgeous purple/yellow contrast at half the cost of pure amethyst.
Your Top February Birthstone Questions Answered
What birthstone is February besides amethyst?
Bloodstone is February's alternative modern birthstone. Some ancient lists included pearl or hyacinth, but amethyst/bloodstone are standard today.
Why does February have two birthstones?
Simple – variety. The Jewelry Industry Council added bloodstone in 1952 to provide affordable, durable options beyond amethyst.
Can February birthstones be other colors?
Amethyst ranges from pale lavender to deep grape. Bloodstone is green with red spots. No blues or pinks officially.
Is amethyst expensive?
Compared to diamonds or sapphires? Not really. Fine commercial amethyst averages $20-50/carat. Top Siberian grades can hit $200/carat.
What birthstone is February for zodiac signs?
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) often uses amethyst or garnet. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) traditionally uses amethyst too.
Spotting Fake Amethyst: Quick Tips
With colored glass and synthetic spinel floating around, know these red flags:
- Air Bubbles: Glass imitations often contain tiny bubbles
- Too Perfect: Natural amethyst usually has minor inclusions
- Scratch Test: Real amethyst scratches glass (Mohs 7 > glass 5.5)
- UV Light: Some synthetics glow green under UV; natural doesn't
When in doubt? Ask for a gem lab report. Reputable sellers provide them for stones over 1 carat.
Final Thoughts on February's Birthstone
So when someone asks "what birthstone is february", you now know it's primarily that beautiful violet amethyst, with bloodstone as a fascinating alternative. Whether you're drawn to its royal history, calming hues, or spiritual symbolism, this gem packs centuries of intrigue into every facet.
Just remember – prioritize color depth over size, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and don't overpay for "rare Siberian" without certification. Got a February birthday? You've got one of the most storied gems in history as your birthright!