Until rich deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th Century, Amethysts were as expensive as Rubies and Emeralds. Due to a range of rich colors, the Amethyst is in high demand from designers and consumers alike. Heat treating Amethyst between 878 and 1382 degrees F can create color variance, including green, light yellow, red-brown, or completly colorless varieties. 

It was also believed to prevent drunkenness, Amethyst coming from the Ancient Greek "amethystos" meaning "not drunk."

Worn by St. Valentine, the patron saint of romantic love, it is fitting that Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February. On the Mohs Scale it rates at a 7 and it has a good toughness, making it acceptable for every day wear, as long as proper care is taken to avoid the stone becoming scratched. Amethyst remains the most highly valued stone in the quartz family. 

View our Amethyst pieces

Not sure what she wants for Valentine's Day? We've noticed a few trends in what women want, and we've got it for you. 

1. Pearls

Pearls are a classic look that can be worn all year round. 

 

2. Affection 

Show her how you feel.

 Sterling Silver Filagree Heart Pendant - $36

Sterling Silver Heart Earrings - $20 

 Sterling Silver and Diamond Love Pendant - $37

Heart Necklace - $30

3. Unique

Extraordinary. Just like her. 

Rose Gold Upper Peninsula Pendant - $175

White Gold, Ruby and Diamond Filagree Ring - Sold Out

Multicolor Sapphire Pendant - Sold out

Ruby Filagree Pendant - $295

4. Engagement

Make it a Valentine's Day to remember.

Platinum, Pink Sapphire and Diamond Ring - Sold Out

Marquee Halo Diamond Ring - Sold Out

Marquee Halo Diamond Ring - Sold Out

Vitalium Band with Brushed Finish - $330 

 Ruby and Diamond Ring - Sold Out

Online orders must be placed by Wednesday, February 11 at 11 a.m. Eastern time to be received by Valentine's Day. 

As January's alluring birthstone, Garnet presents in a large variety of colors from greens, pinkish tones, and purplish reds just to name a few. However, the deep red that many are familiar with is the most common color of Garnet. In fact, the red variety is among the most common of gemstones and has a rich history. The name Garnet comes from the Latin for grain, as the crystals resemble the seeds of a pomegranate.

Different varieties of Garnet include: Tsavorite ( a green color), green Demantoid, orange Spessartine, and purple-red Rhodolite. These all have distinct chemical compositions, and because of this their hardness varies. On the Mohs' Scale of Hardness, the Garnet rates from 6 1/2 to 7 1/2, depending on the variety and its structure. 

Garnets have adorned the necks of Egyptian Pharaohs, signet rings used as wax stamps in ancient Rome, and in the Middle Ages, garnet was prized by clergy and nobility.

We love hearing stories from our customers about their special piece of jewelry. Today we had a pleasant surprise from blogger Samantha Elizabeth. Samantha received a sterling silver U.P. Pendant as an early Christmas gift. She said I love that I can wear this pendant and keep “home” close to my heart. 

Check out A Little Piece of Home: Upper Peninsula Pendant on Samantha's blog, and enjoy a few photos of her with her pendant.