Teardrop Amethyst Necklace

The Stone: Amethyst from the Quartz Family

Amethyst is the purple variety of the mineral quartz, chemically silicon dioxide. Its color comes from traces of iron in the crystal lattice, which form color centers through radiation. That's why its tone ranges from soft lilac to deep violet, and lighter and darker zones often alternate within a single stone. With a Mohs hardness of 7, amethyst is robust enough for everyday wear, and its glassy luster makes the color come alive even in low light. The teardrop on this amethyst necklace shows a rich purple with visible color zones that give every stone its own pattern.

Material and Craftsmanship of the Teardrop Amethyst Necklace

You can choose between 925 sterling silver and the warm tone of 14K gold-filled. 14K gold-filled is a real, thick layer of gold that is firmly bonded to a base metal. Unlike simple gold plating, which is only a wafer-thin surface layer and can wear off and fade over time, 14K gold-filled keeps its warm gold tone for years with good care. The amethyst is polished into a soft teardrop shape and drilled crosswise, so it sits directly on the fine box chain without a setting and stays centered as you wear it. Without facets, the color zones inside look calm and the purple glows softly. I select each stone individually and string it by hand. The teardrop measures about 13 to 14 mm (about 0.5 in), and you choose the chain length, with a spring ring clasp, when you order: 45 cm (17.7 in) or 40 cm (15.7 in).

Meaning of the Stone

The name goes back to the Greek amethystos, which roughly means “not intoxicated.” In antiquity, the purple quartz was believed to protect against drunkenness, and in the Middle Ages bishops wore it as a sign of level-headedness. By tradition, it stands for calm and an alert mind. As the birthstone for February, the Teardrop Amethyst Necklace makes a very personal gift, and for yourself it is a piece that matches your month. As a slim cylinder, you'll find amethyst in the Cylinder Amethyst Necklace. The February Birthstone collection shows every February piece, and the birthstone guide explains all twelve birthstones.

Caring for Your Amethyst Necklace

The pendant and chain are water-resistant and made for everyday wear. To make your necklace last as long as possible, you should still avoid prolonged contact with salt water and chlorinated water, as well as perfume, lotions, and harsh cleaning products. After swimming in the ocean or a pool, it's best to rinse the necklace with clean water and dry it carefully.

Amethyst can fade in long, direct sunlight, so keep the necklace protected when you're not wearing it. Also avoid high heat, sudden changes in temperature, and ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Store the necklace dry and apart from harder pieces of jewelry, and its purple and luster will stay beautiful for a long time.

The name goes back to the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated.” By tradition, it stands for calm and an alert mind, and as the birthstone for February it makes a personal gift.

100% genuine amethyst
- 925 sterling silver or 14K gold-filled
- Fine box chain with spring ring clasp, your choice of 45 cm (17.7 in) or 40 cm (15.7 in)
- Stone size: about 13 to 14 mm (about 0.5 in)
- Pendant and chain are water-resistant
- February birthstone