February Birthstone: Amethyst (Color & Meaning)

The February birthstone: Amethyst

Amethyst, February's violet birthstone, is a variety of quartz whose color 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 color, 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 jewelers 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 color and meaning that suits you best.

Every recognized February birthstone, each with its own color.
Stone	Color	Role
Amethyst	Violet purple	modern
Onyx	Black	alternative

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 recognized alternatives.

What color 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.

Is there an alternative to the February birthstone?

Yes. Besides Amethyst, February also recognizes Onyx. Either is a valid choice.

How hard is the February birthstone?

Amethyst measures 7 Mohs on the Mohs scale. That matters for everyday jewelry: a softer stone scratches more easily and is better suited to a pendant than to a ring worn daily.

February birthstone