Smuckers Grape Jelly

That's a highly technical, gemological term for amethyst. Okay, just kidding... but you get the idea. Amethyst is classically a rich, translucent purple. Equally gorgeous faceted or polished as a cabochon, it's a dramatic stone!

It's a captivating quartz and has historical and symbolic associations with royalty. Amethyst was a favorite of Catherine the Great of Russia and also features prominently in ecclesiastical items. Translated from the Greek meaning "not drunk," Bacchus also had an affinity for the stone purported to ward off drunkenness. But quite frankly, the color makes me delightfully woozy. 

Amethyst is relatively soft and should not be set in a ring you plan to wear everyday. If you want a purple stone for an engagement ring or other ring you plan to wear daily, opt for a sapphire. And sun worshipers beware... extended exposure to the sun will cause the color to fade.  

Unexpectedly, amethyst comes in a dreamy green. Green amethyst is also called prasiolite. Think asparagus bisque... but transparent!  Typically, very clean (i.e. free of inclusions) it often appears as an emerald cut. But I've worked with some big sparkly ovals. It's beautiful, affordable, and the perfect way to celebrate the February Momma or Baby who is not keen on purple. The color is as understated as the deep purple is assertive. 

Katura, being predictably unpredictable, has set these gorgeous stones in rose gold. And you can see how well amethyst plays with others... natural rosebud pearls and diamonds for starters.  

Amethyst is a great way to brush off the winter doldrums... when you've recovered from the holidays and you're ready for a little party, birthday or otherwise, amethyst is ready.