Attention all January-born Capricorns and Aquarians: your month is finally here! January not only ushers in the new year but also a host of birthday festivities.

If you’re searching for a perfect gift for someone special, a great way to begin is by looking into their birthstone and associated symbols.

Each month has at least one designated gemstone, with some months featuring more than one. Here’s everything you need to know about January’s gemstone, including its background and significance.

January’s Gemstone

The birthstone for January is garnet. Its name comes from the medieval Latin word “granatus,” which means “pomegranate.” This is echoed in the Middle English term “gernet,” which signifies “dark red,” as reported by the American Gem Society.

Garnets are often associated with a rich red color, which explains its historical esteem.

In ancient Egypt, red garnet necklaces adorned the necks of pharaohs, while during the Middle Ages, it became a favored gem amongst nobility and clergy. Roman officials would use garnet-engraved rings to seal important documents, according to the Geological Institute of America.

Aside from red, garnets come in a spectrum of colors: orange, green, purple, blue, and yellow. The color variations of garnet are dictated by its chemical makeup, according to the International Gem Society. For example, almandine garnets can range from deep red to purple, while andradite types can appear in brown-red, black, yellow-orange, or green shades.

This beautiful gemstone is extracted from various locations worldwide, including Namibia, Tanzania, Myanmar, Brazil, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka, per the Geological Institute of America.

The Significance of Garnet

Wearing garnet is believed to promote good health, prosperity, and happiness. According to Indian astrology, this gemstone is thought to help eliminate negative feelings and enhance self-confidence, as noted by the Geological Institute of America. In medieval times, garnet was utilized to treat inflammatory diseases and to calm a troubled heart.

Additionally, garnets are often presented as a traditional gift to celebrate the second wedding anniversary.