The popularity of birthstones dates back to ancient times when people living in early civilisations believed that gemstones had incredible powers. Gemstones were associated to a birth month, each one having its own significance.
The January Birthstone ‘garnet’ is available in a rainbow of colours, ranging from deep reds to vibrant greens, oranges, browns, subtle pinks and purples. It symbolises peace, prosperity and good health.It is believed that garnets protect their wearer from nightmares and evil spirits. They are also said to protect travellers against accidents away from home.
Garnets are found all across the globe including in Czech Republic, Greece, Tanzania, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and India.
The word ‘garnet’
The word ‘garnet’ comes from the 14th century Middle East English word ‘gernet’ which means dark red. And this word ‘gernet’ was derived from the Latin word ‘granatum’, which means seed (garnets resemble the beautiful red seeds of a pomegranate).
Colours
Most commonly red, garnets are also found in a rainbow of colours – a beautiful range of reds, vibrant greens, oranges, browns, subtle pinks and purples. Some rare garnets are even blue, colourless or the rarest of all are known to change colours in different lights.
Highly durable gemstones
Garnets are very durable gemstones, marked 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. Perhaps this is the reason behind their remnants been found back from the Bronze Age. Even Egyptians and Romans are said to use garnets in their jewellery and carvings, as per evidences collected by archaeologists.
The Gem of Faith
Legend says that those who do good while wearing a garnet invite more good to come to them. In fact, garnets can bring hard luck and dark fate to those who commit bad while wearing it. They are often called the ‘Gem of Faith’.
Garnet jewellery
A range of beautiful jewellery pieces such as rings, tiaras, pendants and drop earrings are carved out of different coloured garnets.
Garnets, the January birthstones are considered an ideal token of true friendship and also the perfect gift for 2nd, 6th and 19th wedding anniversaries. You may also give them to friends and loved ones who plan to embark on a new journey. Get the best quality gemstones at KGK, direct from source.
