Learn About Gemstones: Garnet

Garnet means deep red, from the Latin granatus, meaning grain or seed - a reference to the vivid red color of the pomegranate seed. This gemstones is the birthstone of January, the Zodiac stone for Capricorn and Aquarius, and the second wedding anniversary gift.

Despite its name, garnet is not always red. It exists in a variety of other colors except blue - green, purple, yellow, orange, pink, even black/brown. The hues depend on the unique combination of elements within the gemstone. First discovered in Sri Lanka, garnet can also be found in Africa, Australia, India, Russia, South America, and the US.

The garnet is believed to heal, regulate the heart and blood flow, and provide strength and protection. A gift of garnet is symbolic of love and affection, and the desire for a loved one's safe travel and homecoming. When exchanged between friends, it embodies the hope that they meet again. The gemstone is mentioned in many myths and legends. One such myth is about the Greek goddess of sunshine, Persephone, who was abducted by the god of the underworld, Hades. He eventually released her but not before he offered her some pomegranate seeds which guaranteed her return to him.