Feeling the January blues? Let garnet light up your life with passion, power, and a pop of color!

The January blues can be very real, so the fact that garnet, January birthstone jewelry, was thought to relieve depression in medieval times is a comforting thought. Its name is derived from the Latin for pomegranate, due to its beautiful pinkish-red, jewel-like seeds, but garnets come in a variety of colors, from the greens of demantoid to the violets of almandine, which were once used in stained glass windows.

What Is a Garnet Birthstone?

Garnets, being January birthstone jewelry, are part of a mineral group with the same crystal structure but with different chemical compositions. The term "garnet" is actually a family of minerals, and each one has its own unique features. Among the most common types of garnets are almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and grossular. Each one of them has a special beauty to it.

History of Garnet Birthstone

In Greek mythology, Hades enticed Persephone to return to him in the underworld every year by offering her pomegranate seeds, which inspired the tradition of gifting garnets before a long journey. In the Bible, garnet is said to light the way for Noah's Ark. Garnets and garnet jewels were commonly discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, and Native American healers believed the stones could protect against physical harm.

Red garnets contrast beautifully with pale gems, which is why the Duchess of Cambridge's Victorian ring, which features her birthstone, garnet, interspersed with the Duke of Cambridge's birthstone, pearl, is so stunning.

Mystical Discovery of Thames Garnet

Garnet's popularity peaked in the 1800s when a rich seam was discovered in Bohemia, which is now Czechoslovakia and is still mined today. Examples of era jewelry include large chandelier earrings adorned with stones, paste (glass diamonds), and pearls, all set in thin sheet gold to maximize the effect of the materials.

One of the garnet's most endearing characteristics is that tiny samples of it are frequently discovered by mudlarks along certain stretches of the Thames, prompting jewelers across countries to create studded rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Nobody knows exactly where the garnets came from or how they ended up at the bottom of the River Thames. According to Robin Hansen, curator of the Natural History Museum in London, garnets are not native to the Thames and were deposited there by humans. But why? There are numerous theories, but there is currently no conclusive evidence to solve the mystery. Alan Murphy, who has been mudlarking for over 30 years and collected hundreds of garnets, believes "they are Almandine garnets from India or South Asia, brought to London via the trade routes of the British East India Company."

Symbolism and Astrological Significance of Garnet

Garnet is pure bright red and known to elevate your passion and energy. The stone symbolizes love and passion as it relates to the zodiac sign Capricorn. Garnet is said to grant its wearer power, stability, and protection. Furthermore, the root chakra associates the stone to help balance one's energy levels.

Garnet is believed to increase self-confidence, improve creativity, and infuse energy into the body. Plus, it's believed to have emotional healing effects, bringing peacefulness and attracting positive energy. Worn as jewelry or carried as a stone, garnet reminds one of inner strength and transformative power.

Trending Garnet Birthstone Jewelry Styles in 2025

1. Garnet Halo Rings

Who says red can't sparkle? Garnet halo rings are a 2025 favorite. Shop rich red garnet surrounded by shimmering diamonds or white sapphires—elegance and glamour in one. These rings aren't just for engagements; they're perfect for making any outfit stand out.

Oval-Cut Garnet & Diamond Halo Ring in Sterling Silver

This halo ring features an oval-cut 6 by 4 mm stone. The center stone is surrounded by 0.15 carats of brilliant-cut diamonds.

2. Garnet Studs

Love subtlety? Minimalist garnet studs are a must-have. These tiny red gems add a pop of color to your daily look without stealing the show. Whether at work or brunch, these studs bring a sophisticated touch.

Emerald-cut Garnet Solitaire Stud Earrings in 14k White Gold

This garnet infinity design drop pendant features a genuine round gemstone center surrounded by diamonds, all set in sterling silver. 18.2 x 8.9 mm

4. Garnet-Accented Bracelets

Garnet is not just for rings and necklaces. It's gaining spotlighting in the bracelet scene, too. Simple charm or bold design, these bracelets are perfect: subtle yet statement.

Garnet Heart Bracelet in Sterling Silver