January Birthstone: All About Garnet

As the first month of the year, our January mindsets are optimistic, hopeful, and passionate. That’s why the vibrant red garnet, January’s birthstone, is such a fitting choice. The bold red hue of this precious gem will inspire both January babies and their loved ones to embrace the new year and all of its possibilities. Discover the rich history of the stunning January birthstone below!

The History and Symbolism of Garnet

Known for its deep red hue, the garnet has become one of the most popular gemstones that represent love. Whether you’re kindling the flame of a new romance or commemorating an old friendship, garnet is a beautiful symbol of the many different kinds of love that we experience in our lives. Wearing a garnet is said to promote fidelity, success, devotion, and honesty. Garnet’s color also links it to energy, passion, strength, and vitality. Its various meanings hold wonderful significance for our relationships with ourselves and loved ones.

Garnets have been treasured for centuries, with the first known stone being traced back to 3000 BC. Their name derives from the Latin word ‘garanatus’ or ‘seedlike’, as early civilizations were taken with the gem’s resemblance to pomegranate seeds. Garnets’ ties to the fruit made it a popular gift for couples, as in Ancient Greek mythology pomegranates were associated with love and eternity. In one tale, Hades gave Persephone a pomegranate before she left him to ensure her swift return. Garnets have since been used as a luxurious upgrade for couples in long distance relationships.

The colorful gem was often used to adorn the tombs of Ancient Egyptian pharaohs. It was also a popular Bohemian stone, and can still be found in the interiors of castles and churches in the region (modern day Czech Republic). It was often used in jewelry in Spain, Italy, Russia, and Victorian England, and can be found amongst the royal jewels of each respective country. At the time, many Europeans believed that garnets had healing properties that could combat depression, bad dreams, and even diseases. Garnet’s natural red color was said to be related to blood and a healthy circulatory system.

Nowadays, garnet is mostly known as the January birthstone or the gift for second wedding anniversaries. Though we may not rely on garnets for protection and healing anymore, we can still appreciate their beauty and symbolism.

Garnet Care

Garnets are a durable stone, generally ranking between 6.5 or 7.5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale. However, they should be treated with special care and attention. It’s best to clean garnet jewelry with warm, soapy water and a clean jewelry cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used if the garnet has no fractures, but avoid steam cleaning as high heat may damage the gemstone.

January Birthstone Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry is always a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re buying something special for a loved one or you want to treat yourself, a quality piece of demi-fine jewelry is always a great choice. It’s a small but worthy investment that will become a long lasting source of joy. Start the year off right with some beautiful January birthstone jewelry!

Understated and elegant, these rose gold and garnet stud earrings are perfect for everyday wear.

Contemporary coolness meets classic beauty with this chain band birthstone ring. A bright red garnet acts as the perfect finishing link.

A sparkling half moon encircles a rounded garnet, giving this striking mini pendant an aura of mystery. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to your everyday outfits.

 Perfect for those who truly want to embrace garnet’s rich red hue, this bracelet showcases the beauty of simplicity. Surrounded by a rose gold halo, the garnet matches the bracelet’s elegant dainty chain. 

Complete your jewelry collection with a birthstone piece today!

Explore our complete January birthstone range in the Debon D.D collection.

Writer: Maria Polansky