GARNET JEWELRY - THE JANUARY BIRTHSTONE

One of the most beautiful gemstones out there, garnet, is the birthstone for the month of January. Most commonly coming in a deep crimson red color, the garnet stone is full of sparkle and shine. Known to symbolize good health and prosperity, garnet dates back all the way to 3000 B.C., and can be traced to the bronze age. The beautiful gemstone was also often used in ancient Egyptian jewelry, and exchanged during the middle ages. Aside from good health and prosperity, garnet also symbolizes trust, affection, and friendship. There is no doubt that garnet is a magnificent stone, and stunning when used in engagement rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches, and more. Garnet also looks especially wonderful when coupled with sparkling diamonds, and set in either silver or gold.

One of the main reasons why the garnet gemstone has sustained so much popularity, for such a long time is due to its rich, dark hue that is not only vivid, but also saturated and transparent. And, what many people fail to realize is that the garnet gemstone does not only come in the traditional deep crimson red color that so many have grown to love, but also comes in shades of pink, yellow, purple, green, blue, brown, black, orange, and even colorless. A favorite gift for all types of celebrations, many people enjoy giving and receiving garnet jewelry for special anniversaries, birthdays, valentine’s day, Christmas, and more. Coming with an unbridled passion that is stunning to say the least, garnet jewelry is definitely eye-catching and always memorable.

Some say the word “garnet” comes from the pomegranate fruit, which is full of deep-hued crimson red seeds that look eerily similar to the garnet gemstone. The appearance of garnet is almost glass-like, and comes with a wonderful luster, which is what makes the stone sparkle and almost glow. Aside from being the birthstone for the month of January, garnet is also the state of New York’s gemstone, and the state mineral of Connecticut. Usually signifying the second year of marriage, garnet comes from Latin word ‘Garanatus”, which means seed-like. Hard and very durable, garnet is a gemstone that is known to last the test of time, which is just another reason why the gorgeous gemstone is prized by so many. Aside from incredible jewelry, many historical groups and even royalty were known to have added garnet to their interior home decor, both in the form of portraits and wall coverings.

Garnet, meaning “sun” in Spanish astrology, were extremely popular in 18th and 19th century Europe. In medieval times, garnet was said to help ease depression, offer protection against bad dreams, and help relieve hemorrhages and diseases in the liver. It was also said that garnet protected the body from poisons. In ancient times, the amazing gemstone was commonly written about by various groups and noteworthy individuals. The Greeks said the stone protected children from drowning. Noah was said to have lit his dark ark with garnet. Christians viewed garnet as a symbol of the blood from Christ’s sacrifice. Hebrews said the stone was one of the twelve gemstones in Adam’s breastplate. And, the Koran said the stone “illuminated the fourth heaven of the Moslems”.

Bringing about transformation, the garnet gemstone is also known to enhance bodily strength, as well as increase vigor and endurance. Also known to amplify love and romance, garnet is also said to help with business prospects as well. The incredible gemstone has a purifying and balancing energy that breaks inhibitions and releases anger. Also helping one’s spirit radiate, garnet is said to bring about emotional stability and have a calming influence on whoever comes into contact with the gemstone. Garnet is also said to increase one’s self-confidence. Overall a beautiful, sparkling, shiny, durable, and gorgeous stone, garnet is not only stunning to look at, but also quite meaningful as well. It has an extremely rich history full of a lot of symbolism.

Shop Sitara Collections for a complete line of garnet gemstone birthstone jewelry.