Birthstones · February
The February Birthstone: Amethyst
The February birthstone is amethyst — the regal purple quartz once valued as highly as ruby and emerald. Here is what it means, what makes one amethyst finer than another, and where to find antique amethyst jewellery.
- Amethyst is the birthstone for February and the gem of the 6th wedding anniversary.
- It is the purple variety of quartz, ranging from soft lilac to deep royal purple.
- Value is led by colour, then clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight; deep, even purple is most prized.
- Explore antique amethyst and gemstone jewellery and antique rings at Mozeris.
What is the February birthstone?
The February birthstone is the amethyst, the purple variety of quartz. Its colour ranges from delicate lilac to a deep, saturated royal purple, sometimes with red or blue flashes. Until large South American deposits were found, fine amethyst was rare and ranked among the most precious of gems.
Amethyst is traditionally given for a 6th wedding anniversary. Generously sized and richly coloured, it was a favourite for Georgian and Victorian necklaces, brooches and rings.
Meaning & history
Amethyst has symbolised clarity of mind, sincerity and royalty for centuries — its name comes from a Greek word linked to sobriety. It was worn by bishops and monarchs, and by the Georgian and Victorian eras had become a favourite for elegant, large-stone jewellery.
Set in fine gold cannetille work or simple rubover mounts, antique amethyst pieces show the stone's colour to wonderful effect.
What gives Amethyst its value
Amethyst is judged chiefly on colour: depth and evenness of purple set fine stones apart, with clarity, cut and size following.
| Factor | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Colour | Deep, even royal purple — sometimes with red flashes — is most prized; pale stones are common and worth less. |
| Clarity | Fine amethyst is usually eye-clean; visible inclusions reduce value. |
| Cut | A good cut deepens colour and life; antique cuts add character. |
| Carat (ct) | Large stones are not rare, so fine colour matters more than size. |
| Era & workmanship | An antique stone in a fine period mount carries collector appeal. |
The antique premium
With antique amethyst jewellery the setting often makes the piece. Fine Georgian cannetille gold work, a Victorian rubover mount or an original period necklace with intact hallmarks can lift value well above the stone alone.
Explore Antique Amethyst Jewellery
A curated collection of antique and vintage amethyst rings, brooches and necklaces.
Antique Amethyst jewellery at Mozeris
Amethyst suits bold, elegant antique jewellery. Across our collection you will find it in:
- Antique rings — large-stone rubover and cluster designs.
- Brooches and earrings set with purple amethyst and gold.
- Necklaces and pendants — Georgian rivières through to Victorian designs.
Browse the full antique gemstone jewellery collection to explore by stone.
Choosing & styling
Purple amethyst looks regal against warm yellow gold, the classic antique pairing, and crisp when framed by diamonds in platinum. A large amethyst cocktail ring or a rivière necklace makes a confident statement.
For a period look, pair amethyst with the elegance of Victorian design or explore the wider world of antique gemstone jewellery.
Frequently asked questions
The February birthstone is amethyst, the purple variety of quartz, ranging from soft lilac to deep royal purple.
Amethyst symbolises clarity of mind, sincerity and royalty, and has been worn by bishops and monarchs for centuries.
Colour matters most — deep, even royal purple is finest — followed by clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight. Fine colour counts for more than size.
Yes. We offer antique and vintage amethyst pieces across our antique gemstone jewellery and antique rings collections. Browse online and make an enquiry to view or purchase.
February's Royal Purple
Discover antique and vintage amethyst jewellery, chosen for colour, character and craftsmanship.