January Birthstone: Garnet
The birthstone of the first month in the calendar year is the always stunning garnet. Most commonly known for its fiery red appearance, garnet actually describes a group of gemstones with similar chemical composition that can vary widely in color. Garnet symbolizes love and friendship, while also believed to bring the wearer good health, wealth, and happiness.
Historically, garnet was used for a variety of reasons by multiple cultures. In ancient Egypt, the pharaohs wore garnet-studded necklaces. In ancient Rome, signet rings were widely worn, garnet was used to create unique inscriptions on these rings that were then used to stamp wax seals on important documents and letters. Garnet also remained a prominent gemstone throughout the Victorian Era in Europe. During medieval times, Garnet was believed to be a cure for inflammatory diseases and an angry heart. Also, according to Indian Astrology, garnet would help to alleviate negative feelings like guilt and depression. This would then lead to greater self-confidence and mental clarity to help promote creative thinking and overall peace of mind.
This collection of colored gemstones can be found in many parts of the world. Garnet deposits can be located in parts of North and South America, Southern Asia, the Middle East, and all across the African continent.
The gemstones that are part of the garnet family tree range from 6.5-7.5 on the Mohr Hardness Scale, meaning they are stronger than stones like pearls and opals, but not quite as hard as sapphires, rubies, and diamonds. Keep this in mind when storing your garnet, because it is susceptible to scratching from harder stones, and will also scratch softer stones in your collection. The score it holds means garnet might not be ideal for everyday wear, but is ideal for brooches, earrings, and pendants or set necklaces. When it comes to cleaning your garnet jewelry, a soft brush paired with warm and soapy water will do the trick.
Shop CLT Jewels today for the best selection of antique and vintage estate jewelry. Stop by Malak Jewelers today to browse our collection of garnet jewelry, other gemstones, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, 22k gold, estate jewelry, rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and other fine jewelry. We are located in South Charlotte, North Carolina, in The Arboretum Shopping Center at the corner of Providence Road and Pineville-Matthews / Highway 51. We are open from 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday.