Garnet | Deep Red

The garnet includes a group of minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age as gemstones and abrasives. The name "garnet" may come from either the Middle English word gernet meaning 'dark red', or the Latin granatus ("grain"), possibly a reference to the pomegranate, a plant with red seeds similar in shape, size, and color to some garnet crystals.

There are many myths and legends surrounding the garnet. One Biblical legend is that Noah hung this gem on the ark to light his way through the dark and stormy nights of God's wrath. A Greek myth linked to the garnet is the story of the young goddess of sunshine, Persephone, who was abducted by Hades, god of the underworld. Hades eventually released Persephone, but not before he offered her some pomegranate seeds, which guaranteed her return to him.

The garnet continues to be the protective gem of journeyers. A gift of garnet is thought to be symbolic of love and the desire for a loved one's safe travel and speedy homecoming. It is January's birthstone, but far from being only a winter gem, the garnet, with its brilliance and multitude of colors, is truly one for any season.

By her who in January was born
No gem save garnets shall be worn
They will ensure her constancy
True friendship and fidelity.
Gregorian Birthstone Poems

Get your Birthstone bead! A birthstone (or birthday stone) is a gift of a precious material, that symbolizes the month of birth:

January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Why wear Birthstones? European tradition suggests everyone should always wear their birthstone. For the fullest effect, individuals needed to own an entire set of twelve gemstones and rotate them monthly.