January Birthstone - Garnet

Posted on Jan 06, 2021 By Zachary Rawlings

The birthstone for the month of January is garnet; a stunning gemstone with a deep history. Garnet was named after pomegranate seeds because of the gemstone’s exquisite dark red wine coloring that looks very similar.

But, red isn’t the only color of garnet, and a wide range of stunning colors are available including green, orange, and pink. Continue reading to learn more about this gorgeous gemstone that fittingly commemorates January's birthdays.

Garnet History

Garnet has been used in jewelry for ages dating back to the Ancient Egyptians who referred to it as the symbol of life. Garnet was also very popular during the Roman Empire, Middle Ages, and Victorian Era and was believed to ward off pestilence and plague.

In modern times garnet comes in a wide variety of jewelry and styles fitting many tastes and preferences. The rarer colors of garnet make breathtaking pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Garnet Colors: Mandarin, Tsavorite, Demantoid, and Lotus

Although garnet is found in a wide range of colors, some of the most popular are Mandarin, tsavorite, demantoid, and lotus.

Mandarin is a rare form of garnet that features a radiant pure orange color and extraordinary brilliance.

Tsavorite garnet offers stunning pure green hues and exceptional brilliance. When compared to emerald, tsavorite garnet outshines with superior color, clarity, and refractive index.

Demantoid garnet is a lighter shade of green and is known for its stunning horsetail inclusions which are one of the few inclusions that actually increase the value of the gemstone.

Lotus garnet is an exquisite pink color similar to morganite. Discovered in 2015, lotus garnet’s slight fluorescence can give it the appearance of color change when viewed in direct sunlight.

Garnet Symbolism

Garnet is thought to open the heart, ignite love and passion, heighten creativity and inspiration, and promote joy. Garnet also signifies trust and affection. This symbolism makes garnet a meaningful romantic gift.

Garnet is also the birthstone for the zodiac sign Aquarius and is traditionally the gemstone given to celebrate a second wedding anniversary.

Garnet Jewelry

Garnet is a very durable gemstone and measures 6.5 - 7.5 on the Mohs Hardness scale. This makes it an excellent choice for an everyday wear piece as it will be resistant to scratches, chips, and breaks

Garnet looks stunning set as earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets. Shop our wide selection of garnet jewelry to find the perfect piece for a January birthday. If you're not finding something you love, one of our award-winning jewelry artisans can craft a custom piece that will absolutely take your breath away.

Shop our stunning collection of garnet jewelry today! >>