Amethyst
Violet purple · Clarity, calm and sober judgement.
- Modern birthstone
- Amethyst
- Also recognised
- Onyx
- Colour
- Violet purple
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Zodiac signs
- Aquarius, Pisces
The February birthstone: Amethyst
Amethyst, February's violet birthstone, is a variety of quartz whose colour ranges from pale lilac to deep royal purple. In antiquity it was believed to keep the mind clear, and it remains a symbol of level-headed calm.
As a colour, Amethyst sits in the violet purple range, which is part of why it feels so tied to the season. If you were born in February, this is the gem most jewellers and birthday charts will point you to, and the one that appears on a modern birthstone card.
What the February birthstone means
In the older lore, Amethyst was linked to clarity, calm and sober judgement. That symbolism is a tradition rather than a fact, but it is the reason the stone has stayed meaningful as a birthday gift for so long. Different cultures added their own associations, yet the core meaning has held remarkably steady.
Alternative February birthstones
February is not limited to a single stone. Alongside Amethyst, the month is also linked to Onyx. Any of these is a valid February birthstone, so you can pick the colour and meaning that suits you best.
February birth flower and zodiac signs
A birthstone is only part of the picture. The February birth flower is the Violet, and anyone born this month falls under Aquarius or Pisces. For everything about the month in one place, see the February overview.
Frequently asked questions
What is the February birthstone?
The February birthstone is Amethyst, a violet purple gem. It also has Onyx as recognised alternatives.
What colour is the February birthstone?
Amethyst is violet purple.
What does the February birthstone mean?
Amethyst traditionally stands for clarity, calm and sober judgement.
What zodiac signs fall in February?
Aquarius and Pisces both fall within February.
Birthstones for other months
Last updated 2 July 2026.