The birthstone for February is the Amethyst. Amethyst is the purple variety of the mineral quartz and is a popular gemstone available in different shapes and sizes, making it more affordable. Amethyst complements both warm and cool colours and therefore can be used with white, yellow and platinum jewellery. The name “Amethyst” comes from the from the Greeks and means “not drunken or sober”. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed Amethyst would ward of the intoxicating powers of alcohol and keep the wearer clear headed and quick-witted. Purple Amethyst speaks of peace, temperance, serenity and royalty.