Garnet - The Stone of Life
2 min reading time
Garnets can come in array of color and can also be transparent, translucent or opaque. Red is their most common color, but they literally can be any color in the rainbow with blue being particularly rare.
Garnets are wonderfully durable stones, garnet jewelry from the bronze age has been found.
Garnet is a 6.5 – 7.5 out of 10 on the Mohrs scale making it perfect for everyday wear.
Why is Garnet Special?
Garnet is the birthstone for January. If you are a stickler of tradition, it is the stone used to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of marriage.
Garet represents lasting friendship.
Garnet is considered one of the seven precious stones identified in the bible. It was said to guide Noah who used a garnet lantern during its darkest epochs.
In Christian history the garnet symbolizes Jesus's sacrifice, while the Qur'an states that garnet illuminates the fourth heaven of the Muslims. The Greeks believed it protected children from drowning. Egyptians thought it a symbol of life. During the third and fourth centuries it was very popular with the Romans. An unfortunate, contrastive view of tribal belief from warriors in India informs that a wound caused by a garnet laden projectile will bleed profusely.
The Victorians were enamored with it and frequently made jewelry using garnets that resembled pomegranates. When you think about it, it makes perfect sense as “garnet” comes from the Middle English word “gernet” meaning dark red. In turn that stems from the Latin word “gratim” meaning seed/ and hence an association with pomegranate.
Perhaps as an extension to that story it is thought to provide security and defense while traveling. It is also thought to attract positive energy and drive out negative influences from your life.
Colorful Floral Inspired Cocktail Rings
How to Care for Garnet Jewelry:
Use a soft cloth and gentle soap and water to clean the aquamarine. Follow the cleaning with a soft dry cloth should do the trick.
Try to prevent cosmetics, lotions, sunscreens from encountering the stone.
Our artist friends here at Sundara Joon have been hard at work making some beautiful pieces incorporating this special stone. Check out their special jewelry for yourself. Garnet is a wonderfully popular stone on its own but is equally lovely when paired with other colorful gemstones.
Still Want More?
American Gem Society – January Birthstones