February Birthstone: Choosing Amethyst Jewelry
February's birthstone is amethyst, the purple variety of quartz. If you're buying amethyst jewelry as a gift, start with what the person wears: a bracelet they can see throughout the day, or a necklace that works with their usual neckline.
For a gift, match the style and size to something they already enjoy wearing.
What color is the February birthstone?
Amethyst is purple. Individual stones can look lighter, darker or uneven in color, and lighting changes what you see in a photograph. Compare several images when they're available. Don't use color alone to decide whether a stone is natural, treated or synthetic.
GIA's February birthstone guide explains amethyst's identity and history. The product listing should tell you what is known about the particular jewelry you're buying.
Amethyst bracelet or necklace?
A bracelet works well with short sleeves or a pushed-back cuff. Check that they like beads and mixed shapes. For someone who wears necklaces more often, look at their favorite length before buying another.
This bracelet comes in finished lengths of 14.5, 15, 16, 17 and 18 cm, approximately 5.7, 5.9, 6.3, 6.7 and 7.1 inches. Those are bracelet lengths, not wrist sizes. Beads take up space inside the bracelet, so measure the wrist and allow for the design. Our bracelet size guide walks through it.
Prefer a shorter necklace? The Pearl Bow Necklace with Amethyst & Clear Quartz is listed at 38 cm, about 15 inches. It combines pearls, amethyst, clear quartz and silver. The listing does not specify the silver's fineness. Check the necklace length chart rather than assuming a short necklace will sit the same way on everyone.
What goes with purple amethyst?
For a simple outfit, try it beside cream, gray, navy or denim. Pearls add a lighter detail; clear quartz gives the purple more space. If you already wear several colors, repeat one of them in your jewelry instead of trying to match every stone.
Three things to check before ordering
- The complete materials list. “Amethyst jewelry” doesn't tell you the metal, the other beads or whether a finish is plated. Ask about any missing detail that matters to you.
- The actual measurements. Compare with a piece they own. A close-up can make a small stone look much larger.
- The gift timing and return terms. Read the delivery information and return policy before choosing a surprise.
How to care for amethyst jewelry with pearls
Follow the care instructions for the whole piece. A cleaning method suitable for amethyst may not suit pearls, wood or stringing. For the mixed-material designs shown here, keep them away from perfume and household chemicals, remove them before swimming or showering, and wipe gently after wear. Don't use steam or ultrasonic cleaners on pearls.
See GIA's amethyst care guide and our jewelry care instructions. Ready to compare designs? Browse amethyst jewelry or the full gemstone collection.