In the world of high jewellery, Garnet is often misunderstood. Long associated with deep red tones, this January birthstone is, in truth, a family of gemstones defined by diversity, natural colour, and remarkable history. From vivid greens to glowing sunset oranges, garnet offers a spectrum that feels both timeless and quietly unexpected, making it a favourite in refined gemstone jewellery.
January’s Birthstone
Garnet is the traditional January birthstone, symbolising strength, continuity, and renewal. Its presence feels particularly fitting at the start of the year, a gemstone that brings warmth and depth to winter light. As a birthstone gift, Garnet marks beginnings with substance and meaning, whether chosen for a birthday, anniversary, or personal milestone.
Pink Garnet Butterfly Earrings with Diamonds, crafted in 18k White Gold.
A Gem Worn Through History
Garnet is one of the earliest gemstones used in jewellery, appearing in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman adornment. It was often carved into signet rings and worn close to the body, valued not only for beauty but for its perceived protective qualities. During the Victorian era, Garnet jewellery became especially popular, admired for its richness of colour and emotional symbolism.
This long history contributes to Garnet’s enduring appeal. It is a gemstone that has moved seamlessly through centuries of design, adapting to changing tastes while never losing its identity.
The Science Behind Garnets
A Mineral Family
Garnet is not a single mineral, but a group of related minerals that share the same crystal structure. This scientific family is what allows Garnet to appear in such a wide range of natural colours.
Naturally Coloured and Unheated
Garnets are typically untreated. Their colour develops naturally during formation, without the need for heat enhancement, a quality that is increasingly prized in fine gemstones.
Mandarin Garnet
Known for its vivid orange to fiery amber tones, Mandarin garnet is celebrated for its intense saturation and warm glow. Its colour feels energetic and luminous, offering a striking alternative to more traditional gemstones.
Featured: Fire Star Ring with a 6.01-carat Certified Mandarin Garnet and Diamonds, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. From the BOMBSHELL High Jewellery Collection.
Tsavorite Garnet
Tsavorite is a vibrant green garnet with exceptional brilliance. Its colour rivals that of fine emeralds, yet with greater clarity and durability. Gem experts often note that fine Tsavorite Garnet is significantly rarer than emeralds, with some in the trade suggesting it may be tens of thousands of times less common.
Featured: Magical Feathers Ring with a 2.43-carat Certified Tsavorite Garnet and Diamonds, crafted in 18k White Gold. From the ONE THOUSAND AND ONE TALES High Jewellery Collection.
Rhodolite Garnet
Rhodolite sits between red and purple, combining raspberry tones with soft violet undertones. Elegant and romantic, it offers depth without heaviness and is especially versatile in both modern and classic settings.
Featured: The Tudor Rose Ring with a 11.66-carat Certified Rhodolite Garnet, Diamonds, and White Mother of Pearl, crafted in 18k White Gold. From the QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH High Jewellery Collection.
Hardness and Wearability
Garnets fall between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them well suited to jewellery when thoughtfully set. Their balance of durability and brilliance allows Garnet to shine in both statement pieces and everyday gemstone jewellery.
Garnet in High Jewellery and Gemstone Jewellery
Garnet’s appeal lies in its character. Each variety carries a distinct personality, allowing designers to create pieces that feel expressive and intentional. In high jewellery, Garnets pair beautifully with diamonds, where contrast enhances both colour and light. In gemstone fine jewellery, they offer richness and individuality, never relying on trends to make their impact.
Featured: The Rhodolite Princess Earrings set with 6.31 carats of Rhodolite Garnets, crafted in 18k White Gold. From the RHAPSODY High Jewellery Collection.
Featured: EDGY Double Gem Ring with custom-cut Red Garnets, in 18k Rose Gold. From the EDGY Fine Jewellery Collection. All fine jewellery pieces are customisable to your choice of gemstone and gold colour.
Garnet does not demand attention through sparkle alone. Its beauty is rooted in depth, colour, and history. As January’s birthstone, it represents quiet strength and continuity, a gemstone chosen by those who appreciate substance as much as style.
To view our Garnet creations in person, kindly book an appointment or reach out to our Client Relations team.
