February Facts

Birth Flower: African Violet

Botanical Name: Saintpaulia ionantha and S. spp.
Pronunciation: saint-PAUL-li-uh eye-o-NAN-tha
Availablity: year-round
Decorative Life: months to years, depending on use

Birth Stone: Amethyst

Amethyst is a variety of quartz which comes in an array of shades, ranging from pale lilac to rich purple. Ideally, it is a deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes to give beauty and fire.

It has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility. Some say it will prevent baldness and improve the complexion, as well as protect from treason and deceit. Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British Crown Jewels.

It is found mainly in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia.