January Birthstone - Garnet

What is a January Birthstone?

For those born in January their assigned birthstone is the dazzling Garnet. The gemstone garnet, derived from the word granatum, meaning seed, is so called due to its resemblance to the vibrant red seeds of a pomegranate. Though the red color is the most common, Garnet comes also in many other colors, like purple, yellow, green, pink or even in the rarely found color of blue. But not only this. Some of the Garnets are color-changing gemstones that can change their color according to light: from shades of green or beige or blue in the day light to reddish or purple-pink in incandescent light. Today the most important sources for garnets are Africa, India, and Sri Lanka.

What is the meaning of Garnet Birthstone?

Many beliefs were attached to Garnet in the ancient times. Warriors at ancient times wore it for luck, believing they brought victory. The Crusaders also appreciated the Garnet's qualities, and used them as protection against wounds and accidents in their journeys. Garnets were even once believed to light up during the night and protect their wearers from nightmares. Therefore, it is no wonder that the positive characteristic that are associated with Garnet are loyalty, light heart, friendship and affection - all of which are the core of human inner strength.