January's Birthstone the Red Garnet
Powerful, Mystical Gemstone Treasured throughout the Centuries
Oct 1, 2009
Gemstones have been matched with birth months and the Zodiac Signs for over 2000 years and each beautiful stone has acquired its own legends, healing powers and magical powers throughout the ages. January’s birthstone, the red garnet, is possibly the oldest and most worn gemstone of them all.
About the Garnet
The name garnet is said to come from the Latin word “granatus” (grain) because the stones were compared to the luscious red seeds of the pomegranate. Although red is the most common color of garnet gems, this stone comes in a myriad of colors such as black, green, clear and several shades of red and orange. Garnets are a sturdy stone that can stand up to much abuse which makes them an excellent stone for everyday wear.
Garnets are found in many countries around the world including South America, Asia, Spain, India, Australia and the United States. This worldwide availability explains their use by many cultures throughout the ages.
Garnets throughout History
Garnets have long adorned the prominent and the wealthy throughout time. Garnets were placed in Egyptian tombs to pay the deceased’s passage into the netherworld. Garnet necklaces were found in the graves of Bronze Age Czechoslovakians and were also popular jewelry during the third and fourth centuries in Rome.
Healing and Magical Powers of the Garnet
Native Americans used garnet to decorate their dream catchers and shields and believed that garnet had medicinal powers. When worn, garnet was thought to protect the person from poisons and wounds. Some people also believed that garnet could cure depression, prevent nightmares, break fevers, reduce inflammation and stop bleeding.
Garnet is believed to be strong in magical powers as well. Wearing garnet can increase courage, creativity and add balance to your life. Garnet also aids in acquiring passion and love and developing strong friendships.
Love Powers of the Garnet
The garnet is believed to carry with it sensual energy. When worn, garnet aids in fertility, attraction and helps create a strong desire for passion and love. For married couples the garnet promotes a strong, stable relationship of love, passion, commitment, devotion and fidelity. The garnet is the gemstone for the 2nd wedding anniversary.
Garnets are still admired for their beauty and value and make beautiful gifts for January birthdays or anyone who appreciates the sparkle of deep red in their ring, necklace or earrings. Their power is in more than their beauty, it is also in their ability to last from generation to generation.
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