January is a month that symbolizes fresh beginnings. The start of a whole new year. So it is fitting that I am starting a new series of handmade jewelry collections this year that will be all about birthstones. Before I dive into this month’s stone, I thought I would share a little history on where birthstones came from.
History of Birthstones
For thousands of years, birthstones have been intertwined in many ancient beliefs, cultural traditions, and astrology. There are some who believe the origins of birthstones come from the Book of Exodus, more specifically the Breastplate of Aaron. There were 12 stones in this breastplate that became associated with the 12 months in the year. Thus the tradition of each month having a specific stone came to be.
Whether you believe that or not, it can be shown through archaeological discoveries that gemstones have been used for a very long time to represent many different things. So why not a whole month?
(image from Emmaus Road Ministries)
How Birthstones Entered Jewelry Design
In 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now the American Gem Society), created a standardized list of gemstones linked to each month. This allowed consumers to choose gifts and celebrate birthdays. And with that, let’s see what they chose for January….
(image from American Gem Society)
The Allure of Garnet: January's Birthstone
Garnet is a stunning gemstone that boasts a rich history, captivating colors, and a plethora of meanings that make it a cherished choice for those born in the first month of the year. While garnet is often associated with a deep red hue, this gemstone is far more versatile than it may initially appear. Garnets come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and even colorless varieties. The most common type, pyrope garnet, exhibits a rich red color reminiscent of a pomegranate seed, which is where the name "garnet" is derived.
Symbolism and Meaning of Garnet
Garnet has been revered for centuries, not only for its beauty but also for its symbolism. In ancient times, it was believed to possess protective qualities, guarding its wearer against harm. The stone is often associated with love, passion, and loyalty, making it a popular gift for romantic partners. Many cultures believed that garnets could bring good fortune and health to the wearer, promoting energy and vitality.
In addition to its protective properties, garnet is thought to enhance creativity and stimulate the imagination. It is believed to inspire confidence and provide emotional balance, making it a stone of empowerment. For those born in January, garnet serves as a reminder of their strength and resilience, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with passion.
Care and Maintenance of Garnet Jewelry
Caring for garnet jewelry is relatively straightforward. The gemstone scores between 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it durable enough for everyday wear. However, it is still essential to handle garnet with care to avoid scratches or damage. To clean garnet, simply use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can harm the stone.
When storing garnet jewelry, it’s advisable to keep it in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box to prevent scratches from other gemstones.
Garnet Pieces at The Chill Shop
I’m so excited to share the January Birthstone Collection. We have several pieces in this collection, so I’m sure you will find something you like. While most pieces are made with sterling silver accents, there are a few with gold filled accents. We have necklaces, bracelets and earrings to choose from.
A Little FYI
Normally I release my new handmade jewelry collections on the first of the month. Since this year we are featuring birthstones in our monthly collections, and some folks may have a birthday on the first of the month, I’ll be releasing my collections about a week before the start of each month. Hopefully this allows for those with birthdays at the start of the month to get timely gifts.
Until next time....
Dianna