Editors

January Birthstone Baubles

EditorsJan 04, 2016

January Birthstone Baubles

This month celebrates the popular gemstone that was named for its resemblance to the pomegranate seed and which, according to lore, balances energy.

Red garnet has a long history, dating back to use in jewelry for Egyptian pharaohs and signet rings for the ancient Romans.

To this day, it continues to be one of the most common colored gemstones, found in metamorphic rocks on every continent, according to the Gemological Institute of America.

In addition to being a popular gemstone that has stood the test of time, garnet also is known for its alleged ability to balance energy and uplift attitudes, as well as bring a protective and calming influence. Early explorers carried garnets with them, as they were popular talismans and protective stones.

The ancient Greeks gave the stone its name because of its resemblance to the “granatum,” or pomegranate seed, and though garnet comes in a rainbow of colors, the traditional red hues generally are what consumers recognize as the birthstone for the first month of the year.

Here are eight pieces of jewelry featuring the classic reds of the garnet that would be great for retailers.




Ariel Gordon’s mini emerald-cut necklace features a rhodolite garnet set in 14-karat yellow gold ($345).




This is Gabriel & Co.’s 14-karat white gold, diamond and garnet ring ($430).




From Lagos’ Signature Color collection, these faceted garnet stud earrings are set in sterling silver and 18-karat gold and finished with a 14-karat gold post ($475).




Stuller’s 14-karat yellow gold bracelet featuring Mozambique garnet ($519)




David Yurman’s “Petite Albion” ring with pyrope garnet and diamonds made in sterling silver ($675)




Jane Taylor’s “Cirque” kite stud earrings with pyrope garnet in 18-karat gold ($805)




JS Noor’s leaf drop earrings feature round and pear-shaped rhodolite garnets set in 14-karat gold ($1,450)




These are Arya Esha’s “Simone” stud earrings featuring garnets accented with diamonds and set in recycled 18-karat yellow gold ($2,200).

Brecken Branstratoris the senior editor, gemstones at National Jeweler, covering sourcing, pricing and other developments in the colored stone sector.

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