February is upon us and that means an amethyst birthstone for all you lovable babies born this month! This gemstone is the most prized member of the Quartz family. Gemologists use 4 color grades when determining amethyst quality. Trace elements of iron in its crystal structure that are naturally irradiated are what give Amethyst its color. Heat treatment can be used to lighten the stone or to change its color to green or yellow. The major source for fine quality amethyst is Africa, while Brazil is the world’s major source for commercial grade stones.