The January birthstone is the stunning garnet gemstones. In this article, celebrity jeweler Benjamin Khordipour G.D., will explain everything that you need to know about garnet, what to look for, and how to successfully buy garnet jewelry.
What is the Birthstone for January?
The birthstone for January is garnet, a naturally deep brownish-red colored gemstone. While some months have several birthstones, Garnet is the only birthstone for January.
While the deep red Almandine is the most traditional and widely recognized variety, this gemstone is available in nearly every color of the rainbow, including vibrant oranges, earthy yellows, and even rare, brilliant greens.
For the serious shopper, the beauty of the January birthstone lies in its natural purity. Unlike almost all the other birthstone gemstones, garnets are typically “untreated,” meaning the brilliance and color that you see is exactly as it was when it was found in the earth.
The History and Myths to the Garnet
For centuries, garnet has been one of the most symbolic gemstones.
Ancient civilizations believed garnet had a slew of powers, making it a popular talisman for merchants and nobles alike. Additionally, in ancient Rome, signet garnet rings were used to seal important documents.
This long history gives garnet a depth that goes beyond its famous color, making it appealing to buyers who value historical meaning as much as beauty.
Mythologically, garnet was often linked to life force and renewal, largely because of its deep red hue, which has been compared to glowing embers (or perhaps even the heart itself). Different traditions held that garnet held different powers, leveraging the demand of garnet throughout so many cultures throughout history.
For serious shoppers today, these myths will still resonate, not as superstitions, but as part of a broader narrative and history. Garnet jewelry is often chosen as a thoughtful gift or personal purchase, especially for those born during the month of January.
How much do Garnet Gemstones Cost?
For the classic red garnet gemstone variety that most consumers are looking for (like pyrope and almandine), prices typically start in the very affordable range. Well-cut stones with good color and minimal inclusions usually cost in the $50 to $300 per carat range at retail. Larger red garnets that have good clarity (and an evenly spread color) can push prices higher, especially when set in quality gold or platinum settings. But generally, classic red garnet will remain a budget-friendly option, especially when compared to the birthstone gemstones of July and September.
The rarer garnet species though, will command a much higher price, varying on scarcity and vibrance of color. For example, spessartine garnets with intense orange or mandarin hues frequently range from $300 to $1,200+ per carat for fine-quality stones.
At the top of the shelf, Tsavorite and demantoid garnets, prized for their brilliant green tones and strong dispersion, will often sell for $800 to $3,000+ per carat, while demantoids can exceed $2,000 to $6,000+ per carat.
Buyers should note that these figures can vary based on market conditions. We strongly recommend consulting with a jewelry expert before buying the higher-priced garnets.
Afshin’s Shopping Tips for the Garnet Gemstone
I reached out to veteran jewelry Afshin Shaddaie for his top pieces of advice for serious buyers looking to buy garnet jewelry. Here’s what he said:
- Do not assume all garnets are the same. Garnet is a family of colored gemstones, not a single stone. Almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and tsavorite all fall under the garnet umbrella, yet they vary dramatically in color, rarity, and value. Always ask which garnet variety you are purchasing.
- Prioritize color saturation over size. Afshin emphasizes that a richly saturated garnet will almost always outperform a larger but dull stone. Deep, vibrant color with life and glow is far more important than carat weight.
- Watch out for overly dark stones. Many garnets appear attractive under bright showroom lighting but turn nearly black in normal conditions. Always view garnet jewelry in natural light to ensure the stone retains its beauty (and color) outside the jewelry showroom.
- Ask about gemstone treatment. While almost all garnets are untreated, disclosure is still important. A reputable seller should clearly state whether any heat or enhancement has been applied, even if the answer is no.
- Cut quality matters. Garnets can lose brilliance quickly if the cut is too deep or too shallow. A well cut garnet will reflect light evenly across the surface. Ask the jeweler about the quality of the cut.
- Match the setting to the garnet type. Harder garnets like tsavorite are suitable for everyday rings, while softer varieties may be better reserved for pendants or earrings. Afshin advises choosing the jewelry style based on durability, not just appearance.
- Certification is important for rare garnet. When purchasing the rarer variations of garnet, an authoritative certificate will be of extreme importance, even if you trust your jeweler.
Best Jewelry Styles for Garnet Birthstones
Garnet is a versatile gemstone, but choosing the right jewelry style will depend on the specific garnet variety and how often the piece will be worn.
While garnet is generally suitable for everyday jewelry, some types of garnet will be better protected than others. Well-designed garnet jewelry will highlight the color and brilliance of the gem while also safeguarding the stone from being bumped and damaged.
Garnet works particularly well in rings, especially when set in protective designs like bezels or low-profile prongs. Pendants and necklaces are ideal for showcasing larger stones (or softer varieties of garnet) since they are less exposed to impact when sitting under the neck. Stud and drop earrings also offer an excellent balance of visibility and safety.
“For the rare and expensive garnet gemstones, I always recommend minimalist designs,” says Michael Khordipour. “This allows the garnet to remain the clear focal point of the jewelry.”
Summary of the Different Types of Garnet
Garnet is not a single gemstone, but rather a family of closely related stones that vary widely in color, rarity, and especially value. While red garnets are the most familiar, some of the finest and most collectible garnets appear in vivid greens and fiery oranges. Understanding the main garnet varieties helps serious buyers choose the right stone for them.
- Almandine Garnet: The most common garnet, known for deep red to reddish-brown tones and strong durability at an accessible price point.
- Pyrope Garnet: A classic rich red garnet with good brilliance, often confused with almandine. Typically purer in color.
- Rhodolite Garnet: A hybrid garnet prized for its raspberry to purplish-red hues.
- Spessartine Garnet: An orange to mandarin-colored garnet valued for its intense saturation. Strong demand among serious collectors.
- Tsavorite Garnet: A rare green garnet with exceptional brilliance. Tsavorite is often considered one of the finest green gemstones in the world.
- Demantoid Garnet: A highly prized green garnet known for strong fire and dispersion. The rarer demantoid gemstones will command premium prices.
Shop Garnet January Birthstone Jewelry
We have a few beautiful garnet jewelry birthstone jewelry pieces in our collection. Feel free to use the link below to shop through our online collection. Additionally, if you’re looking for something specific, please feel free to send us a message below.
Caring and Cleaning Garnet Jewelry
Garnet jewelry is generally durable, but proper care is essential to preserve its color, polish, and jewelry setting.
Although garnet ranks well for everyday wear, it can still be scratched by harder gemstones or damaged by sharp impacts, especially in rings that are worn every day.
For this reason, garnet pieces should be stored separately from diamonds and other harder stones, ideally in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box. Benjamin also recommends removing garnet jewelry before heavy activity, cleaning, or any task involving hard surfaces.
When it comes to cleaning garnet, simple and gentle methods are always the best. Warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush are usually sufficient to remove oils and residue without harming the stone.
Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and ultrasonic machines, particularly for older or vintage garnet jewelry. After cleaning, garnet jewelry should be rinsed thoroughly and dried with a soft microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are All Garnets Red, or Are There Other Natural Colors?
While deep red garnets are the most recognized, garnet occurs naturally in a wide range of colors including green, orange, purple, and even color change varieties. Some of the rarest and most valuable garnets, such as vivid green stones, look nothing like the traditional red that people typically associate with the January birthstone.
2. Is Garnet Durable Enough for Everyday Wear in Rings?
Most garnets are suitable for regular wear, especially when set properly. Rings should use protective settings and avoid excessive impact.
3. Are Garnets Typically Treated or Enhanced?
Garnets are generally not treated. Most garnets reach the market in their natural state.
4. How Can I Tell if a Garnet Is High Quality?
High quality garnets display rich, even color, good clarity, and a lively appearance under normal lighting. A well cut garnet will avoid dark or lifeless areas and show consistent brilliance across the surface of the stone.
That being said, it will be critical to consult with an expert to truly determine the quality of a gem-quality garnet.
5. What Is the Difference Between Red Garnet and Ruby?
Although red garnet and ruby can appear somewhat similar in color, they are entirely different gemstones with distinct properties. Ruby is a variety of corundum and commands far higher prices, while red garnet offers beauty at a more accessible cost.
6. Does Garnet Jewelry Hold Its Value Over Time?
Garnet jewelry should be purchased for enjoyment and meaning rather than short term resale. While rare varieties and fine examples retain desirability, consumer-level garnet is best viewed as a lasting personal piece rather than a speculative investment.
Ready to shop for your January birthstone? Reach out to an expert jewelers.
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