Sorry...I've skipped a couple months of birthstones. Here is February's...one of my favorite gemstones to work with because of the beautiful deep purple hues.
Gemstone Properties: Amethyst crystals grow on the inside surface of agate geodes (as seen in photo). Geodes containing amethyst crystals are formed when sand, silt, clay or gravel are deposited and compacted by running water. Some of the largest amethyst geodes have been found in Brazil. You may also find amethyst mined in India, Uruguay, Sri Lanka, Australia, Germany, Mexico, Russia, Africa and the United States.
Amethyst colors range from deep purple to pale lavender depending on the presence of manganese and iron.
History of Amethyst: This gemstone traditionally adorned the crowns and robes of rich and powerful monarchs. Purple is associated with wealth and prosperity and amethyst is still considered a prosperous stone.
Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that amethyst holds the power to ward off evil thoughts and quicken one's intelligence. It was also used as a symbol of peace, thought to evoke feelings of serenity and calmness for those who wear it.
Some naturopaths use amethyst to help treat insomnia and to relieve headaches.
*Description was written using information provided on Fire Mountain Gems website.