February Birthstone: Amethyst

February’s birthstone is the amethyst. This purple quartz is often found in royal jewelry, as the color is associated with a regal status. Although they can be found all over the world today, these stones have not decreased in value. Show your special someone you love how royal you think they are with an amethyst birthstone gift.

Amethyst Symbolism

Ancient Greeks and Romans believed the amethyst would keep those wearing it clear-minded and quick on their feet. It was said to protect the wearer from drunkenness; the word amethyst originates from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not drunk.” In the middle ages, the gem represented royalty and was worn by kings and queens. It was also favored by the clergy as a symbol of Christ. Even today, this pure gemstone is highly sought after.

What Do Amethysts Represent?

The amethyst is said to represent peace, courage and stability. Wearing it is supposed to quicken intelligence and rid the wearer of evil thoughts.

Aquarius and Pisces Traits

Astrological signs for February are Aquarius (January 20-February 18) and Pisces (February 19-March 20). Below, we explain the characteristics of each.

Aquarius are progressive, original and independent. They enjoy spending time with friends and helping others. Although they have the ability to adapt to the energy in a room, they can still be temperamental and let their emotions get the best of them.

• An Aquarius woman is free-spirited and independent. She has a practical outlook on life but is still looking for romance.
• An Aquarius man is intelligent and social. He is independent which can make him stubborn and unreliable.

Pisces are compassionate, artistic and wise. They value being alone and indulge in  arts like music, visual media and painting. Although they are friends to many, their trusting nature can have lead to hurt feelings.

• A Pisces woman is imaginative, kind and selfless. She is compassionate and full of unconditional love for those around her.
• A Pisces man is a gentle person who is looking to serve those around him. He loves to laugh and sees the best in the world around him.

Violets and Primrose Symbolism

Violets are one of February’s birth flowers. There are hundreds of species of violets, the most common being the blue violet. Violets grow in a variety of climates because they are able to adapt to their environment. Their blue and purple hues are so pretty that you could eat them up, literally! Violets are an edible flower.

What Do Violets Represent?

Violets represent watchfulness, loyalty and faithfulness. Giving a violet to someone signifies that you are there for them.

Primroses are another one of February’s birth flowers. They are easy to grow, low-maintenance plants. They come in a variety of colors, yellow being the most common. The primrose is also an edible flower and is dried to make teas and other beverages.

What Do Primroses Represent?

Primroses are a symbol of bashfulness and young love. If you give someone a primrose, you are letting them know that you can’t live without them.

February has many important dates in history and is a month of many interesting celebrities and public figures.

• February is one of the most commonly misspelled words in the English language.
• The Super Bowl takes place on the first Sunday of February.
• February is the only month that can pass with no full moon.
• February is the shortest month of the year.

Famous Birthdays in February

• Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer player – February 5
• Bob Marley, singer – February 6
• Charles Dickens, writer – February 7
• Thomas Edison, inventor and businessman – February 11
• Abraham Lincoln, American president – February 12
• Rihanna, singer – February 20
• Kurt Cobain, singer-songwriter – February 20
• Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple – February 24

For an overview of all birthstones, check out this month by month birthstone guide!

Sources: American Gem Society / Brilliant Earth / Psychic Guild / Astrology Zodiac / Teleflora / Almanac / Fun Flower Facts / Express Co. / Burlington Record / The Famous People