January’s birthstone, the Garnet, is one of the oldest gemstones.
The stone’s name originates from the Latin word: granatus, meaning seeds of a pomegranate. In the French language, grenat was used as a noun to refer to the deep-red gemstone. This term was later introduced into the English language and became known as “garnet.”
Take a closer look at this birthstone rich history: Garnets have been used since the Bronze Age. Jewelry with red garnets embellished the pharaohs of ancient Egypt, and Signet rings in ancient Rome often featured garnet intaglios to stamp official documents.
Staff Favorite
A stunning release by fan-favorite Lika Behar; red garnet layered over mother-of-pearl for a mystical, deep red; accented with sapphires and set in oxidized sterling silver.
Not sure about a ring? Check out the matching Garnet & Mother-of-Pearl necklace from Lika Behar:
Throughout its history, garnet sourcing spread across many regions. The Bohemia region, for example, was the primary source of the red pyrope garnets during the Victorian era.
In the present day, the African continent is the primary supplier of most of the world’s garnet. While best known for its deep red color, this gemstone naturally occurs in any color. They can range in appearance from opaque to transparent, as well.
Garnet’s exclusive red color comes from the high amounts of the Pyrope mineral. Garnet contains other minerals such as almandine, grossular, and uvarovite. These minerals allow for the diverse color range of the January gem.
The Garnet ranges between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, meaning it can be more susceptible to damage with regular wear. Always be thoughtful when storing softer gems and cleanse your jewelry gently, using a soft brush and warm soapy water.
Gender-Neutral
The deep red and high refractory of garnet (aka, brilliance), makes it a perfect stone to set in both men's and women's styles; and because garnet comes in a range of color tones, you have an endless array of customizable options.
Our customs team can source a variety of garnets for you to look at and hand-select. Get started today!
Gifting a Garnet?
If you're hoping to gift the January birthstone to someone special, but you're unsure how much jewelry they wear, or what their finger size is, stick to an easy-to-wear, fits-everyone classic: studs.
We feature them in a variety of sizes, and can set them in the metal color of your choice - yellow, white, rose gold, or platinum.
The Garnet ranges between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, meaning it can be more susceptible to damage with regular wear. Always be thoughtful when storing softer gems and cleanse your jewelry gently, using a soft brush and warm soapy water.
Our team of experts are always on hand to help with gemstone care and cleaning advice, as well as our complimentary on-the-spot clean & check service.
