January - Garnet (more information)

The name garnet is from the Latin word granatus which originated when garnet grains in rock were compared to the dark red seeds of the pomegranate fruit.

Garnets have been used as gemstones for many thousands of years. In ancient times they were known as carbuncles, as were other red gems, and were used in jewelry from early Egyptian, Greek and Roman time.

They were in the 'Breastplate of Judgment' of Aaron. Noah, it is said, used a garnet lantern to help him steer his ark through the dark night.

Garnets are also s. Garnets have long been carried by travelers to protect against accidents far from home. Garnet was also considered a sacred stone by many native Indian tribes of North, South and Central America.

Historically, garnets were believed to give protection from wounds and poison, stop bleeding, symbolize truth & fidelity, and bring prosperity. For these reasons, garnets were exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to insure that they meet again.

Garnet's powers include healing, strength, and protection and it is often worn to relieve inflammations of the skin.