Posted by Amoro on 1/31/2011 to
What comes to mind when you think of February? Valentine’s Day is sure to be at the top of your list. It’s the month for love, red roses and pink hearts. So doesn’t it seem odd that we have a purple gemstone representing this month? I thought so until I read about the legend of Saint Valentine that says he wore an amethyst ring carved in the shape of Cupid. Interesting!
The name Amethyst comes from the ancient Greek word “amethustos”, meaning “sober”. According to Greek mythology, Dionysus, the Greek God of Wine, was pursuing a virtuous maiden named Amethyst, who became the object of his wrath after he became intoxicated on red wine. When Amethyst cried out to the Goddess Diana to protect her, she was turned into a white, shimmering quartz stone to help protect or her purity. Dionysus realized what had happened and felt remorse for his actions and began to cry in his goblet of red wine. The goblet containing his tears and wine overturned saturating the white stone until it became the purple quartz that is now known as Amethyst.
During the Middle Ages in the days of romance and chivalry, if an amethyst was presented by a lady to her knight, or a bride to her husband, in the shape of a heart set in silver, it was said to bestow the greatest possible earthly happiness on the pair. They would be blessed with good fortune for the remainder of their lives.
Since one of its powers is to strengthen the bond of love, the Amethyst actually seems like the perfect birthstone for the month of February, as well for special anniversary or engagement jewelry.
So, if you’re looking for a gift for someone with a February birthday or celebrating a romantic occasion with a loved one, Amoro has a dazzling selection of Amethyst jewelry. From Amethyst pendants, bracelets and my favorite, the Amoro Tango Amethyst Ring in 14kt White Gold, you really can’t go wrong with the gemstone synonymous with love!