January - Garnet

The gemstone Garnet is the birthstone for January.  It is also the stone for the Zodiac sign Aquarius.

Garnet occurs in many colours.  We use Mozambique Garnets which are the most popular variety.  They have a glowing cinnamon colour - a warm reddish/brown.  Tales of Garnet date back to the time of Noah who is said to have steered the ark by a lantern made of this dazzling gem. 

Garnet ranges from a 7.0 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

The major source for Garnet is various parts of Africa.

Legend and Healing Properties

Garnet's legendary powers include healing, strength, and protection and it is often worn to relieve inflammations of the skin. 

It is also believed to regulate the heart and blood flow and aid in curing depression.  In earlier times, garnets were exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to insure that they meet again.