THE BIRTHSTONE OF JANUARY: GARNET
Garnet, the birthstone for January, is a gemstone admired for its colour and versatility. Whether you were born in January or simply appreciate its vibrant charm, garnet's timeless appeal continues to captivate across generations.
What is a garnet?
The garnet is a group of silicate minerals that form under intense heat and pressure, resulting in its stunning array of colours. While it’s mostly associated with its deep red hue, garnets can also be found in shades of orange, green, pink, purple, and even colourless. The name ‘garnet’ is derived from the Latin word granatus, meaning ‘seed’, as the gemstone’s rich red colour often resembles pomegranate seeds. Garnets are prized for their brilliance and durability, with a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5–7.5, making them ideal for everyday wear.
Where are garnets found?
Garnets are found in many regions around the world, including Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and Russia. Some of the finest red garnets come from Mozambique and Tanzania, while green garnets, like Tsavorite, are mined in East Africa.
The history of garnet
Garnet has a history as rich as its colour, dating back thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, garnet was used as a talisman to protect against evil and was buried with pharaohs for their journey to the afterlife. During Roman times, garnets were favored by nobility and were often carved into signet rings for sealing documents. In the Middle Ages, garnets symbolized faith and constancy, and knights wore them as protective amulets.
The Victorian era saw a resurgence of garnet’s popularity, particularly with the bright red ‘Bohemian garnets’ sourced from Central Europe.
Famous garnets
Some garnets have made their mark in history and fame:
The Pyrope Garnet Necklace: This striking necklace is part of the Smithsonian's gem collection, featuring Bohemian garnets from the Victorian era.
The ‘Ant Hill’ Garnets: Found in Arizona, these small but intensely coloured garnets are unearthed by ants while building their mounds.
Tsavorite Garnets: Although discovered in the 1960s, these rare green garnets from East Africa are prized for their vivid, emerald like colour and brilliance.
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