January Birthstone Garnet: Everything You Need To Know

January is the new beginning of the year, so what’s better than starting it with a Garnet? Speaks of its exotic rich red hue or the heartwarming symbolism, Garnet is sure a gemstone of its kind. But as much as you treasure the beauty of this red gem, doesn’t it sometimes make you wonder how it even came into the picture? What’s the backstory of it, and how many colors does it come in? If yes, you’re curious to know about this January Birthstone, then you’re at the right place. We’re here to take you on a tour and introduce you to everything. Let’s start off with basically what garnet is. So without further ado, let’s dig into it:

Introduction: January Birthstone

First things first, let us quickly introduce this wonder gemstone that has left everybody captivated: Garnet (i.e., January Birthstone) is a semi-precious gemstone valued for its mesmerizing range of colors (such as green, orange, yellow, and other colors) and meaningful symbolism. It’s a silicate mineral, which is also known as carbuncle. Garnets symbolize love, warmth, and vitality, so they are a perfect choice for January Birthdays and 2nd wedding anniversaries.

What is Garnet?

Garnets are silicate minerals that grace both metamorphic and ignite rocks. Garnet’s name comes from the Latin word ‘garanatus,’ which means ‘seed-like,’ and the Middle English word ‘gernat,’ which means ‘dark red’. Garnet is basically a group of silicate minerals that has over 20 different varieties of garnet. These varieties are popularly known as species. [Ref]

• Symbolism and Meaning: Symbolizes strength, loyalty, and friendship.
• Colors: Garnet colors vary from dark rich red to many shades which include green, purple, orange, purple, and rarely even blue.
• Mohs Hardness Scale: Garnet ranges from 7.5 to 8.5, indicating it is quite durable.
• Associated Zodiac Signs: Connected to Capricorn (December 21 to January 20) and Aquarius (January 21 to February 8) zodiac signs.
• Special Recognization: A perfect gem for January Birthdays & 2nd wedding anniversaries.

History of January Birthstone: Garnet

Back then in ancient times, Garnets were valued in ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece for their mesmerizing rich red color and durability. And, during the Middle Ages, they were also believed to offer protection in battle and the gemstone helped to protect them and even make them win the battle.

In the 19th century, garnet was immensely cherished during the Victorian era; they were often used in intricate jewelry designs. However, in the 20th century, garnet was officially said to be the birthstone for january. Some cultures believe that garnet is a symbol of trust, friendship, and loyalty. In no time, this red sparkler had the gemstone jewelry world going obsessed over it.

In fact, different kinds of garnets can be found all around the globe. Major sources of garnet include countries like Sri Lanka, the United States, India, and Madagascar.

(Talked about this red gem’s history, now let’s shed some light on its healing properties):

Healing Properties of January Birthstone

The Garnet gemstone has been linked with healing properties for a long time. They are commonly connected to the rook chakra, this chakra is said to be strongly associated with a deeper sense of stability. It helps in curing depression and fear inside the person. You will feel uplifted and boosted emotionally and physically too.

Garnets are considered a gem that has all the power to remove all the negative energies and heal the body while stabilizing the chakra (i.e., rook chakra, sacral chakra, and heart chakra).

January Birthstone Garnet Color Options

While garnets are known for their red color and striking beauty, you know that this gemstone comes in a variety of shades. From calm blue, warm orange, green, or even colorless, every gem has a different composition.

Factors to consider when purchasing Garnet gemstone

If you’re selectively new to buying Garnet, let us tell you - knowing and analyzing the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat) in and out is way too important to buy the garnet of your dreams. These factors determine the overall quality and beauty of your gem to such an extent that they are judged against a grading scale.

So, if you’re thinking ‘How do you pick a good garnet?’, fret not, we’ve prepared a detailed sheet for you:

• Cut:

  The cut is something that brings an extraordinary touch. Thus, it is best to let your personal preference and style decide which Garnet Cut is perfect for you.

• Color:

  Garnet’s color is a crucial factor. The reddish hue is the most popular type of garnet color. However, at times, you might still catch them showcasing a slight brownish-red hue when subjected to certain lights.

• Clarity:

  Clarity displays the absence of blemishes, inclusions, or any kind of imperfections in the garnet gemstone that go on to deteriorate its quality and beauty. Since, garnet is formed naturally underneath the earth’s surface, which is why it is more likely to boast some imperfections as a birthmark.

• Carat:

  In simple terms, Carat is widely accepted as the standard unit to measure Garnet’s weight. In metric terms, 1 Carat is equal to 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams.
  Naturally, a higher-carat Garnet is considered more beautiful and hence, fetches a more expensive price tag than its counterparts.[Ref]

Tips to Clean and Preserve Garnet Jewelry

Garnets are not like sapphires, ruby, or diamonds. Garnets have a 6.5 to 7.5 Mohs Hardness scale which shows that it's quite softer than these other gemstones. We would suggest, don’t wear your garnet jewelry with any precious stone as it can easily scratch it up.

• Firstly, fill up your bowl with some lukewarm water.

• Add a mild dish soap to the water.

• Keep your jewelry or soak it in the solution.

• Take a soft-bristled toothbrush, and easily remove all the dirt particles.

• Then, keep your jewelry in the air, to dry naturally.

• You can use an ultrasonic cleaner but take care that your garnet doesn’t get cracked.

• NEVER, we’ll repeat it never steam clean your jewelry.

• Store your jewelry in soft fabric pouches or jewelry boxes, to maintain your garnet jewelry’s sparkle for years to come.

• Never put on your perfume, lotion, or any harsh chemical product after wearing your garnet jewelry.

Shop January Birthstone Garnet Jewelry

January Birthstone (Garnet) is one of the most beautiful gems that one will ever come across. Rosec Jewels has emerged as the one-stop destination that has the expertise, creative flair, and skill to bring forward a catalog of garnet jewelry that never fails to impress. Our collection of garnet rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and jewelry sets is just perfect to elevate your style.

People Also Ask:

• Are there two birthstones for January?

  YES, Rose Quartz and Garnet are the two birthstones for January.

• What is the real birthstone for January?

  Garnet is said to be the real birthstone for January.

• Is January's birthstone ruby or garnet?

  The primary birthstone for the month of January is ‘Garnet’ whereas ruby is officially a July birthstone.

• Who should not wear garnet?

  As per beliefs, some zodiac signs shouldn’t wear garnet jewelry. Zodiac signs including Aries, Leo, or Taurus, should avoid wearing this January birthstone.

• What is the rarest birthstone month?

  Diamond (April Birthstone) is considered the rarest birthstone.

• What is the alternate birthstone for January?

  Rose Quartz, is said to be the alternate birthstone for January.

• Is a garnet expensive?

  Garnet comes in a variety of colors and quality. The more rare type, the more expensive the garnet will get. As they’re just difficult to find.