Click to view our statement on Accessibility

FOR SMART, STYLISH JEWELRY LOVERS EVERYWHERE

The Jewelry Box Blog

January's Birthstone: Celebrate Garnet

on
Three garnet rings

January babies can be a dark bunch, at least when talking about January's birthstone hue. The garnet is the gem of the month and is most known for its deep red stone. Garnet got its name from the Roman word “granatus” meaning “seed,” since the gems were thought to resemble pomegranate seeds.

Did you know that garnet gemstones come in every color except blue? It’s true. Let’s explore their kaleidoscope of beauty and benefits.

 

Colors of Garnet

Garnet stone

 

Red

Red versions were often worn by soldiers to heal wounds and stop blood flow. They were also said to promote true love, warn of danger by changing color, and protect the wearer’s home from fire and lightning.

Yellow

Yellow versions were thought to stimulate energy. Check out Grandma’s jewelry box for yellow-green and mid-green stones ... it could be a garnet. These hues are mostly found in antique jewelry.

Green

Mothers in medieval Europe used to hang green garnets above their baby’s cradle for good health and sweet dreams. Green gemstones were also said to bring prosperity, calm the nerves, and protect wearers from emotional stress.

Pink

The lighter, sparkling bright pinks can resemble pink sapphires. They were believed to attract romance and cure broken hearts.

Celebrating your second wedding anniversary? Give the gift of the 2nd year anniversary gemstone.

 

How to Clean and Care for Garnet

Though they are tough, special care must be taken, as some varieties can chip. If you’re wearing yours as a ring, look for a setting that protects the gem with metal. Also avoid steaming, abrupt temperature changes, and acids, which may damage gems. To clean garnet, the best advice is to use a mild dish soap and warm water.

For more jewelry care and cleaning tips, check out AGTA’s webpage on garnet.

Want to learn about the other birthstones? Check out our Birthstone Guide or download the PDF version!

Don't forget to insure your garnet jewelry! Check your rate using the button below.
 

 

Contact Us

If you have a media-related question, please email us at [email protected].

About Jewelers Mutual Group

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 38 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2024. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas, Miami, Florida and Raleigh, North Carolina. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.