There are really just two January birth stones; Garnet and Rose Quartz. However, most people solely recognize Garnet on a large scale. The word Garnet is derived from Latin which means grain or seed; "granatus", and it was so called thanks to the striking deep red of the gem being so especially close to that found in the seeds of pomegranates. However, with a Mohs scale hardness of 6. 5 to 7. 5; biting down a Garnet can not be quite the same sensation as you get from the fruit's seed!

But, many are surprised that Garnet can additionally be found in colors other than red; and a few exquisite gems are out there in greens, oranges, pinks and violets. These changes in color are caused by the mineral content within the gem; these are rarer still than the already elusive red Garnet. There are a countless legends, myths and folklore that surround the Garnet; crossing several cultures and eras. In Biblical legend for instance, it is inferred that Noah hung a Garnet on his Ark, so as he may light his journey throughout the storms.

Possibly due to this, and other stories in lore, the gift of a Garnet is often given to hurry home safely a loved one, who is undertaking a journey. Because of its deep red color, it's also highly symbolic of affection and want; and is usually given to January born loved ones by their significant other. Records show that it's been mined for at least 2500 years, though not consistently for its delicate nature; typically being employed as a tool such due to its hardness. Whilst traces of this mining were found in Sri Lanka, the Garnet is found in several places across the globe including; Africa, India and the United States of America.

The other of the January Birthstones is the attractive Rose Quartz that, because the name suggests, ranges from a fragile pale pink, to sorts which deepen up to the hue of a red rose. The colors of the gem are caused by trace amounts of titanium and iron, and in some cases manganese. Usually, the value of Rose Quartz is believed by most to make inadequate gems, and certainly can be cloudy. However there are exceptional items found and they're usually carved into wonderful hearts; making for a excellent gift for loved ones.

Despite not being widely well-liked, it is reputed to be one amongst the most powerful semi precious stones within the world. It is said to possess several healing powers, with the flexibility to help bring calm, and balance emotions at times of stress, anxiety and even guilt. While Rose Quartz is found across the world, from Asia to Europe and on to Northern America; it is mostly mined in Brazil these days. Brazil has also long been the producer of the best examples, and, in the proper setting, can make an exquisite different when searching for January birthstones.