There is no better way to herald in the new year than by giving someone the gift of protection, January’s birthstone, the garnet!
Getting its name from its close resemblance to pomegranate seeds, the garnet comes in many different colors, but red is, and always be the most popular choice. It’s no surprise that it’s commonly referred to as the gemstone of love, thanks to its rich and diverse history.
It’s time to learn a little history about the garnet, including who’s worn it best and why this gemstone will always be a popular choice as a gift for those you care deeply about.
What Is January’s Birthstone?
The garnet, found in streams and underground, comes in various naturally occurring colors, including yellow, green, and even clear. Still, the favorite and most popular color variation is, and always will be, red.
At deBoulle Diamond & Jewelry, we stock a wide selection of beautiful jewelry and timepieces, perfect as a gift, for a special occasion, or just to let someone know how much you care.
Garnet Facts and Symbolism
Gemologists and jewelers often refer to the sparkle from garnets as fire, and for good reason. The sparkle from garnets is best seen in soft lighting, such as candles, during a romantic evening.
It’s believed that garnets are thought to bring wearers born in January the blessings of wellness, love, friendship, and devotion.
One famous garnet enthusiast is Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. Before marrying Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cambridge was gifted a garnet ring featuring a garnet birthstone. The ring was a sign of commitment by the Prince to his future wife.
Another famous piece of garnet jewelry was a 19th-century brooch worn and owned by Jackie Kennedy. During her estate sale, the cabochon brooch was auctioned off and achieved the highest price, fetching over $115,000.
Other celebrities who have embraced the warmth of garnets include Sofia Vergara and Kristen Bell.
The History of the Garnet
It was once believed that the garnet offered the wearer protection from nightmares and even poison. While we don’t have to worry so much about being poisoned these days, the garnet has a rich and diverse history stretching back thousands of years.
Garnets have been discovered in the tombs of Pharaohs in Ancient Egypt and Persia, where it’s believed that only kings were allowed to wear the precious gemstone.
In ancient Rome, noble patriarchs typically wore garnets carved into signet rings. The garnet was believed to protect travelers, and when the ring sparkled, it was a sign of looming dangers.
The garnet was believed to be an incarnation of a tiger’s soul in Ancient China, and the Navajo believed it brought luck and protection to the wearer.
The Best Way to Wear Your Garnet
To highlight the beauty and color of garnet, it’s best worn as earrings, rings, bracelets, or necklaces. A garnet can add a delicate touch of color to any outfit, regardless of whether you’re attending an event, a black-tie occasion, or just going out for a special night out with a loved one.
The hue of the garnet means that it’s ideal for all skin tones and will give any wearer the look of royalty. Garnets are the perfect gift for anyone born in January and make an ideal birthstone gift for someone you love.
