January Birthstone - Garnet

Garnet - the birthstone of January
The second anniversary gemstone

Mineral - Garnet
Colour - All Colours (green, red, pinkish orange, purple-red, blue)
Mohs Hardness - 6.5-7.5

Humans have a long history with garnet, from being one of the most traded gemstones in the first century, to adorning pharaohs into the afterlife. The allure of this red gemstone has captivated us for centuries. 

Garnets come in a variety of colours and most of us are familiar with red garnet. However, we love the pinkish-red tones of Rhodolite Garnet, they play beautifully in sunlight! Tsavorite, the green variety of Garnet, is the rarest and prized for its gorgeous green colour rivalling that of Emerald.

Where is Garnet found?

Garnets are mined in various places around the world, with the most gems originating from Africa. Namibia produced some of the most stunning Demantoids and bright green Tsavorites are mined in Tanzania, Kenya and Madagascar. 

Caring for your Garnet

With a hardness of 6.5-7.5 this family of stones are softer than rubies, sapphires, diamonds and topaz, and should be stored separately from them. We always advise to store your pieces in the box or pouch that you received them. 

Treatments are not common with Garnet stones and none of the stones we sell have been fracture filled. This is a process where the clarity of a stone is improved by filling surface reaching breaks with a glasslike substance. Warm soapy water will be your best friend when it comes to cleaning your Garnet jewels and ultrasonic cleaning is usually safe. 

For the best cleaning it is always recommended to either have us clean it for you or your nearest jeweller. 

Why we love Garnet

• Colours! Rich, saturated red Garnets are affordable and are available in a variety of cuts and sizes. Electric green Tsavorites are rare and valuable and a wonderful addition to any jewellery collection
• Almost all Garnets are free from visible inclusions, giving you a clear and brilliant look. 
•  It is believed that Garnets bring good health, wealth and happiness. 

Shop our Garnet Collection, or customise one of our designs, or your own, with this gemstone.