February's Birthstone is Amethyst. It is also a Zodiac stone for the consellation of Pisces. It is associated with spirituality, wisdom, sobriety, and security. The word amethyst comes from the Greek word “amethystos” meaning “not drunk,” and was believed to prevent its wearers from intoxication. Amethyst is a quartz stone that comes in a variety of purple hues. Most common are the dark grape colors and the light lilac. Today, most amethyst is found in Brazil but can still be found in Zambia and in the U.S. in Arizona and North Carolina, as well The color purple is traditionally the color of royalty and amethyst has been used since the dawn of history to adorn the rich and powerful monarchs and rulers. Amethyst has been found in ruins dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning crowns, scepters, jewelry, and breastplates worn into battle. During the Middle Ages, it was used as medication, believed to dispel sleep, sharpen intellect, and protect the wearer from sorcery. It was also believed to bring victory in battle. In Arabian mythology, the amethyst was supposed to protect the wearer from bad dreams and gout. Amethyst is also symbolic of spirituality and piety. Each year Pantone chooses a palette that designers in all industries use in their designs for the season or the year. This year Pantone did something that they have never done before. This year's color of the year are actually two colors. They've chosen Rose Quartz and Serenity. Rose Quartz is a soft pink color and Serenity is a soft baby blue. You will be seeing them in clothing, home décor, fabrics and of course, jewelry. They are great neutrals and perfect for spring and summer. I look forward to using them in some of my designs for spring! Here's a link to Pantone for more info on these two great colors and their meanings. http://www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2016?from=hpfeatures
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AuthorI am excited to begin bringing you new information about trends in design and colors as they relate to jewelry and gemstones. I'll also be adding some great links that I've found along the way from professionals in both the fashion and jewelry industries. And I would love to hear from you! Archives
March 2021
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