The garnet is a beautiful start to the New Year. This gorgeous, red stone has a long history and is incorporated differently into many cultures around the world. In the United States, it’s commonly recognized as the January birthstone!
This dark red stone is a beautiful addition to any jewelry box. Learn more about the origins of the garnet birthstone and how to incorporate it into your style below!
The Origins of Birthstones
Birthstones are gemstones that represent the month of someone’s birth, and these days, they’re commonly worn as jewelry and given as gifts. The origin of birthstones dates back to the biblical times. They originated from the 12 gemstones worn on Aaron’s breastplate to represent the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 months of the year.
In America, jewelers have standardized which birthstone is representative of each month. However, other cultures sometimes use different gems for their birthstones.
About the Garnet Stone
The word “garnet” stems from the Latin word “seedlike”, alluding to the red seeds of a pomegranate.
This stone is so durable that remnants of it can be found dating back to the Bronze Age. References to it go back even further – the Romans often used it for signent rings, and the Egyptians referred to it as a symbol of life.
Throughout time, various cultures have assigned different symbolism to the garnet. In medieval times, this gemstone was used as protection against illness or as protection for warriors going to battle. Christian tradition saw the garnet as a symbol of Christ’s blood, and the Greeks believed that it protected children from drowning.
Nowadays, not only is it the January birthstone, but it’s also considered to be a symbol of love and is often given for marriage anniversaries.
Garnet Earrings
This breathtaking stone evokes elegance and nobility. For this reason, we love earrings that showcase it as the predominant stone. Look for teardrop earrings that feature this dangling gem. Or, go for a more traditional look with garnet studs.
Garnet can be beautifully complimented with diamonds. Consider small diamonds in a halo style around the garnet to frame its bright color and show off it’s stunning look.
Garnet earrings are commonly paired with yellow gold. This combination evokes warmth and timelessness.
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