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January Birthstone: Garnet

What is Garnet: Birthstone Guide


What is Garnet: Birthstone Guide

What Does the Garnet Birthstone Mean?

January is the start of the New Year, symbolizing change and new beginnings. It’s the time of resolutions to achieve new goals in the upcoming year. Garnets are a fitting birthstone for resolutions — they stand for the empowering strength and longevity needed to stride forwards on your new path.

The birthstone garnet symbolizes:

  • Protection and longevity
  • Truth and faithfulness
  • Enduring friendship

Garnet Shades and Varieties

Garnets are a deep red color — the gem was named for its similarity to the luscious pomegranate seed. The word garnet relates back to the Middle English word “gernet”, meaning “dark red”, and the Latin word “granum”, meaning “grain” or “seed".

Garnets are not only red like pomegranate seeds: they also come in a spectrum of oranges, yellows, blacks, pinks, and browns. There are even green garnets called tsavorites — this garnet variety's unique green hue comes from traces of vanadium and chromium.

Champagne

Purple

Red

Blood Red


Garnets in History

Gemstones are the subject of many legends and myths and have been prized by famous peoples and cultures throughout time. Garnets, one of the most diverse gemstone groups, can be found all over the world — in countries like Brazil, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and even the United States. Discover the unique history of the birthstone garnet.

Ancient Egyptian burial jewelry and talismans featured garnets

Imperial Romans crafted garnet signet rings to seal important documents

Celtic and Anglo-Saxon rulers believed garnet protected them and set the gem into jewelry

Victorian England popularized Bohemian jewelry that mainly featured garnets


Garnet Care

Like most gemstones, garnets should be stored separately to avoid scratching or being scratched. Store them in a lined box or a soft pouch. Keep your garnet birthstone jewelry sparkling by cleaning it under warm running water with a mild soap.

How Does Your Birthstone Hold Up?

Jewelers use a tool called the Mohs Hardness Scale to rate a gemstone’s general resistance to scratching. Gemstones are ranked from 1 to 10 on the scale, diamonds are the hardest at 10 — just remember higher gemstones are more durable while lower gemstones need a little more protection and care.


Shop Garnet Jewelry

Explore jewelry for the January birthstone garnet. This rich, red gemstone really sparkles against traditional gold, and makes a bold statement paired with unique metals like black sterling silver. Shop our incredible collection of garnet rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to find the look that’s just your style.

Garnet Rings

January’s birthstone commands attention set in luxurious gold, sterling silver, and rose gold. Explore garnet birthstone rings with enduring style.

SHOP GARNET RING


Garnet Earrings

Make an impact with the regal red birthstone of January. Discover garnet earrings that glisten in hoops, studs, and drop earring styles.

SHOP GARNET EARRINGS


Garnet Necklaces

The bold, red garnet gemstone is a vibrant celebration. Find the perfect garnet birthstone necklace to keep close to your heart.

SHOP GARNET NECKLACES


Garnet Bracelets

Refresh your style with the bold beauty of January’s birthstone. Stun with garnet bracelets in delicate chain styles and intricate gemstone creations.

SHOP GARNET BRACELETS


Garnet Sets

Incorporate the January birthstone of friendship, loyalty, and devotion into your jewelry collection. Enjoy the regal red gemstone in garnet sets featuring your favorite jewelry.

SHOP GARNET SETS

Speak to a Jewelry Expert

In-person, chat session, or phone call — we’re here to help you find your perfect gemstone.

Related Topics

Learn more about gemstones, settings, and styles at Zales.

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