January's birthstone is the garnet — a richly coloured gemstone ranging from deep red to warm reddish-brown. Garnets have been prized since antiquity as symbols of protection and enduring friendship.
Gemstone
Garnet
Colour
Deep red to reddish-brown
Hardness
6.5–7.5 Mohs
Symbolism
Protection, strength, and safe travels
The garnet has been treasured for thousands of years, appearing in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman jewellery. Its name derives from the Latin "granatum" (pomegranate), reflecting the stone's deep red hue that resembles the fruit's seeds.
While most people associate garnets with red, they actually occur in a wide spectrum of colours including green (tsavorite), orange (spessartine), and purple (rhodolite). However, the classic deep red almandine garnet remains the most popular and recognised variety.
With a hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, garnets are durable enough for everyday jewellery including rings, pendants, and earrings. They are an affordable precious gemstone that offers exceptional beauty and character.
Garnets pair beautifully with yellow gold, which complements their warm red tones. For a more contemporary look, rose gold creates a romantic combination. At MOH London, we can set garnets in bespoke pieces crafted at our Hatton Garden workshop.
The January birthstone is the garnet — a gemstone most commonly found in deep red, though it occurs in nearly every colour. Garnets symbolise protection, strength, and friendship.
Garnets can be used in engagement rings but require more care than diamonds or sapphires due to their lower hardness (6.5-7.5 Mohs). A protective bezel setting is recommended for daily wear.
Garnets are one of the most affordable precious gemstones. Standard red garnets start from £30-50 per carat, while rare varieties like tsavorite (green) or demantoid can reach £500+ per carat for fine specimens.