This month’s gemstone is the garnet. Known as a red gemstone and birthstone of January.

 

Garnet is a popular and stunning gemstone that comes in a variety of colours such as red almandine, green tsavorite, yellow mali, orange spessartite, black Melanite and even purple rhodolite.

It is the birthstone associated with January and has been cherished for thousands of years for its beauty and healing properties.

 

The name ‘garnet’ comes from the Latin word ‘granatum’ which means pomegranate. This name was given to the gemstone because of its resemblance to the seeds found inside a pomegranate fruit. 

 

Garnets are found all over the world, and the most significant deposits are in India, Madagascar, Russia, Tanzania and the United States. The gemstone has been used in jewellery making for more that 5,000 years being found in many Egyptian burials and was one of the most popular gemstones in Ancient Rome.

 

It is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a vitreous lustre and is transparent to opaque.

Garnet is not only beautiful but has been reputed to process numerous healing properties listed below:

1.Increasing the energy levels of the wearer, helping to overcome fatigue and tiredness.

2.Promoting spiritual growth and self understanding.

3.Improving concentration, helping the wearer stay focused on their goals.

4.Finally it is thought to increase confidence and self-esteem.

Garnet is a popular choice for jewellery making and a great gift for someone born in January. Whether you wear it for its beauty or for its healing properties, garnet is definitely a gemstone worth exploring.