The birthstone for January is a truly classic gem: the garnet. Simultaneously familiar and mysterious, this endearing and versatile gem is a spectacular way to celebrate the start of a new year and the births of those who share it.
Garnet
Garnet’s use in jewelry dates back to early human civilization, possibly even being the first gemstone used for such a purpose. In ancient times it was often called carbuncle, a term used to describe most hard red gemstones. The modern name garnet shares an etymological root with the pomegranate, though whether that is because of its seed-like appearance in nature or red hue is up for debate.
While garnet is most commonly recognized for its dark red hue, garnets can be found in nearly any color, from golden yellows, to mossy greens, and even the rare color-changing blue garnets whose colors shift in different lighting, reminiscent of alexandrite. Garnets typically form in metamorphic rocks within the earth’s crust, though some varieties originate even deeper in the mantle, giving the stone a geological heritage as diverse as its colors.
Because of its high relative density, small garnets can often be found in river sediments and collected by panning, the same way you might pan for gold. This unique trait has made garnet a familiar find for hobbyists and mineral enthusiasts exploring streams in regions where the gem is naturally abundant. At the opposite end of the spectrum, some of the largest garnets ever documented were uncovered at Gore Mountain in New York, a location famous for its exceptionally large crystal specimens.
Garnets are reasonably durable and suitable for everyday wear, but they can chip or abrade if worn during physical activities such as sports or manual labor. Regular cleaning should be done with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Cosmetics, detergents and solvents may discolor the stone or weaken certain varieties, so it is advisable to remove garnet jewelry before handling. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe for high-quality, inclusion-free garnets but should be avoided if the stone has any flaws. Likewise, garnets are sensitive to dramatic temperature changes so, along with steam cleaning, it is recommended to leave deeper cleaning to professionals.