Coming in under the wire, friends! I'm finally here to talk about January's birthstone.
Garnet... a deep, mysterious red may be the first image that comes to mind when you think of the birthstone for January.
Part of my delay was the difficulty in capturing the deep red accurately. These lovely cushion cuts are set in the M'lyn setting. It's my first earring design from 25 years ago! A simple, tailored setting that has endured the test of time and continues to be a best-seller for Katura. Put these on and you're ready for whatever the day (or night!) brings your way.
Garnet also appears in a pleasant pinky-raspberry, and even magnificent shades of green and orange. These deep luscious pink garnets made-to-order earrings were set in a martini setting. A lovely alternative to your diamond studs and as a lovely anchor to a pearl drop.
Now for a little history... think of the delicious, beautiful, juicy pomegranate.
The name garnet is derived from the Latin word granatus meaning "seedlike" and pomegrante themed pieces featuring the stone are not unusual. Garnets are considered one of the oldest gemstones and were found in a burial site dated to 3000B.C.
Besides being the birthstone for January, they symbolize deep and lasting friendships. Traditionally garnets were exchanged between friends as tokens that they would meet again and as a promise of a safe return.
January is a quiet month for most, hunkering down as the temperatures plunge. Garnet is a beautiful way to celebrate the birth of a January baby. And also the January Momma!