Sedona Gem and Mineral Club

The Garnet is both the modern and traditional January birthstone.  Though traditionally a deep, striking red, associated with fire and power in symbology, they can be found in almost any color – it is one of the most complex in the gem world.  The crystallography is isometric with trapezohedron and dodecahedron forms being common.  They are found in Brazil, India, Madagascar and the US.

The garnet has long been used as a talisman for protection.  According to legend, possessing or wearing a garnet ensures success and health, for the stone is believed to possess curative powers. The stone was renowned for its properties as far back as the wealthy Bronze age, with remnants of garnet necklaces recently found in the graves of Czechoslovakians.  The ancient Egyptians hailed the garnet as a symbol of life, with jewelry dating back to 3100 BC in tombs and graves.  Garnet was very popular during the third and fourth centuries in Rome, the fashion and trade Capital of the age.  Warriors from different sects used to wear the stone as a talisman against death and injury, though, ironically, the stone is said to bring peace and tranquility to the wearer.

Garnet signifies victory, truth, purity, friendship, faith and protection.  The first birthstone of the year is called the ‘Gem of Faith,’ a stone that has the power to bestow eternal happiness, health and wealth on the owner, in addition to a power shield constructed around the wearer by the stone for protection.