Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Happy Birthday…. February!


A little birthstone history, fact, lore and legend.

February, known in Welsh as “y mis bach” – the little month, is also known by the Anglo Saxons as “Sol-monath”, the cake –month because cakes were offered to the Gods during this month.
Along with Valentines Day, I’d say February is pretty “sweet!”


…..Anyway,
February’s  traditional birthstone is the amethyst.
Amethyst, the gemstone believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus, also is said to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. Very handy if you’re  spending a bit to much time with Bacchus!

  Throughout history, the gemstone has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and numerous cultures.  English regalia were even decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty.
Amethyst is purple quartz, a beautiful blend of violet and red that can found in every corner of the earth. Historically, the finest amethysts were found in Russia and were featured in much royal European jewelry.
 
And if you remember from January’s Birthday post, most months have more than one birthstone, the modern and traditional, and the mystical. 

February’s modern birthstone is also amethyst. Alternate birthstones are onyx, and moonstone.

The mystical birthstone for the month is bloodstone. Bloodstone is a variety of dark green chalcedony spotted with red is also known as Heliotrope 
Bloodstone was once used as an amulet in the belief that it could stop bleeding. It was also said to be able to turn the sun red and to make thunder and lightning occur. It was supposed to give the wearer clairvoyance while preserving his faculties and health.

Enjoy "y mis bach" , Happy Valentines Day...and Happy Birthday February!

Stay tuned, next month for Happy Birthday… March!

 
“All the world is birthday cake, so take a piece, but not too much.”
- George Harrison
 

 

8 comments:

  1. Beautiful post! I just shared with my daughter who is Feb. Can't wait for March (it's mine).
    Nice job:)
    Debbie

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  2. So Lovely!
    My son is a FEB. birthday! Purple is my fav. color too. :)
    Such a wonderful month!

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  3. Another great post...filled with history...lore and traditional.

    Today is my birthday.. so this was a sweet blog to read...thank you!

    Would love to add your link to my blog page...my passion is all about traditional living...and you would be such a perfect fit!

    Hugs
    Victoria
    feminineliving.com

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    1. Hi Victoria,
      Yes I would love to link our blogs....since I'm not super savvy with the technical stuff. let me know what you need and what I need to link yours to mine! Thanks for the great comments!

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    2. Renee... How wonderful... I love your work...and the fact you add tradition and history with your jewelry... very unique.

      My link is www.feminineliving.com
      and also my shop www.FeminineChicBoutique.com

      Every month I have a calendar page filled with traditions and facts about the month...that you might also find fun and enjoyable.

      Send me your link or links to put up on my blog page... to my email victoria@feminineliving.com and I will get it posted within the next day or perhaps later today.

      Thank you so much... love supporting and networking with you!

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  4. Thank you for all the wonderful comments! I'm so glad you all enjoy this series. It so fun to do..I LOVE research!
    And to Amylee...my son is a February baby also!

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  5. Really nice post! I love this stone!

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