Garnet Birthstone for January
The birthstone for January is Garnet. Although most people know the colors for their own birth month (and probably several others as well), I’m sure there are only a few who know what the colors represent and the folklore and mythology behind the color! It’s interesting to know the beliefs people once held and some probably still do!
Pomegranate Seeds
The deep red of garnet is supposed to resemble pomegranate seeds. Actually, the name garnet is derived from granatum, which is the latin word for pomegranate seeds.
In Greek mythology, the pomegranate was given as a sign for unending love and passion.
In ancient times, people would wear garnet while traveling because they believed it would light up their night and protect them from things such as nightmares and accidents.
In the middle ages, people thought it would help keep them from being poisoned. Royalty, who were big wearers of garnet, would drop a garnet into their drink so they would not be poisoned.
The Symbolism of garnet is for a quick return to a separated love, fertility and feminine life force.
To care for garnet, wash in warm soapy water and rinse. Dry well.
If anyone else has any tidbits of lore (or fact) for garnets, please leave your comments. I’d love to learn more!
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