The Meaning Behind January Birthstone Garnet

At the start of every month at Dower & Hall, we like to remind ourselves of the history and origins behind the birthstone of the month that is featured in many of our handcrafted jewellery collections. Kicking us off at the start of the year is Garnet, with it’s name originating from the medieval Latin word 'granatus', meaning 'pomegranate'. The gemstone's deep red colour has a striking similarity to the seeds of this delicious fruit. 

 

Garnet gold jewellery hanging with a cream background

 

Historically, large volumes of red garnet were found in Central Europe in the 16th century meaning that this stone became highly prominent in the 18th and 19th centuries. As a result of its affordability and its ability to suit any complexion, garnet has been worn for many centuries by so many different people from across the globe and has been celebrated by so many different cultures.  

At Dower & Hall we feature Garnet in various styles of sterling silver and gold vermeil jewellery, all made with recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones. Our in-house making team love using this gemstone to inject a striking pop of colour to our classic Hammered Disc Array Drop Earrings, Orissa Bracelets and, a firm favourite, the Luna White Pearl and Chain Drop Bracelet.