We're well into the swing of the year's shortest month & have to pay tribute to February's birthstone, the amethyst! We love amethysts for their gorgeous purple hues, sure to brighten any dreary winter day. From a gemological standpoint, amethysts are purple varieties of quartz. As part of the quartz family, amethysts fall at 7 on the hardness scale, meaning they are a reliable & solid choice for everyday jewelry wear. They come in all different shades of purple, from light lilac to deep violet. The word amethyst comes from the Greek word for intoxication. Ancient Greeks believed that amethysts had the power to ward of drunkenness and as a result, would drink out off vessels adorned with the stone, in the hopes that their partying could continue infinitely. We're not sure we buy into this theory, but sure does seem like a great excuse to purchase a fabulous amethyst cocktail ring. Couldn't hurt, right?! Historically, purple has been the color of royalty, and thus the amethyst the stone most associated with royal magnificence. In Egyptian times, the tombs of pharaohs were decorated with elaborate displays of amethysts. The crown jewels of England also feature amethysts prominently. The best amethysts are found in Siberia, Brazil, and Sri Lanka. On the Trumpet & Horn site, amethysts are rare & tend to go quickly! If you see an amethyst that you love, it's best to act fast as they're a very popular choice for engagement rings or cocktail rings. Happy Birthday to all of our February vintage lovers out there! ♥ Image Credits: Wine glass, amethyst raw, amethyst polished, pyramids, and crown jewels