The birthstone for February is amethyst. Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and is said to prevent drunkenness and make the wearer quick-witted in business. It has been associated with royalty and is believed to convey strength and inner empowerment to the wearer. Amethyst can range in color from pale lilac to deep reddish purple, and it is found worldwide. It is a durable jewelry stone, with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Amethyst is widely available and can be found in royal collections as well as in jewelry for the general public