Garnet is the birthstone for the month of January and the Capricorn zodiac sign (December 22 to January 21). It is also the traditional wedding anniversary stone given to celebrate two years of marriage.
Garnets have been used as gemstones throughout history. It was said that Noah used a lantern of garnet to guide his ark in the night so brighten up dull January with this rich stone.
With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs' scale thay are very durable for use in jewellery. Garnets come from India, Central and South America, Sri Lanka, Russian and African countries.The name ‘garnet’ comes from the Latin ‘granatus’. When garnet was first found as grains in rock, it was likened to the rich, red seeds of the pomegranate. A Greek myth tells the story of Persephone, the goddess of sunshine, who was abducted by Hades, god of the underworld. Persephone was eventually released by Hades, when he offered her some pomegranate seeds, which made sure she would return to him. It is from this legend that garnet is the protective gemstone for travellers.
A gift of the stone symbolises the desire for a loved one’s safe journey and speedy return home. Garnets were widely used in jewellery in Egyptian, Greek and Roman times.
For a stylish elegant gift we recommend the Solitaire pendant above, simple chic and only £29
zigzag is an independent jewellery company, set up and run by Julie Peel, with the indispensable help and support of Lucy Ellor, Jemma Welch and other wonderful staff.
With three shops in the South of England, and a website: zigzagjewels.com, we specialise in unusual Gemstone jewellery for women.
Many of our pieces are unique, or from limited editions. We design and make our own jewellery, and buy directly from individual Designer-Makers. All our gorgeous gemstones are sourced personally by Julie and her staff, and come from all over the world.
As well as our existing design service for handmade commissions, we now also offer personal consultations to design and make bespoke Engagement, Diamond and Gemstone Rings, for our customers in the UK.
Well done to Sally who was Monday's winner, Nathalie our winner on Tuesday and Bron - Wednesday's girl. One of our brand new designs...
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