For those born in January, the year begins with a choice between several strikingly different but equally beautiful birthstones.
The bold and fiery garnet offers a striking option for those seeking a unique gemstone for their next piece of jewellery.
As a custom jeweller in Delta, BC, I find that these birthstones offer some of the best opportunities for storytelling.
Whether you are looking to treat yourself to a new pendant or you are considering an inherited jewellery transformation, these gemstones provide a perfect blend of durability and personality.
The garnet is a gem steeped in history and significance. The name originates from the medieval Latin granatus, meaning pomegranate, in reference to the similarity of the deep red colour. For centuries, it has been prized as the primary birthstone for January, serving as a traditional symbol of protection, energy, and health.
While most people immediately think of a deep red, as a custom jeweller, I often recommend specific varieties that offer exceptional brilliance and unique tones:
One of the most frequent requests I receive at Trish Arato Design Studio is to help a client breathe new life into a piece of family history. Many families have vintage gemstones tucked away in a drawer perhaps an old necklace, a forgotten brooch, or a heavy, dated ring that carry immense sentimental weight but simply do not match a modern lifestyle.
This is where the magic of a redesign happens. We can take the stones from an inherited piece and reimagine them into one of my Custom Multi-Stone Rings. By combining a family garnet with modern accents like Canadian diamonds, we create a future heirloom that honours your past while fitting perfectly into your current wardrobe.
When we begin a custom project in our Delta studio, we look at the specific physics of the gemstone to ensure the piece lasts for generations.
To ensure your jewellery remains a brilliant gem for years to come, proper maintenance is key.
Yes, but with care. Garnets have a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them durable enough for daily wear. However, they are more susceptible to scratches and chips than diamonds, so we recommend removing your ring during heavy manual work or exercise.
What garnet variety is best for custom jewellery?
Rhodolite garnet is our most popular recommendation for custom pieces due to its exceptional brilliance and stunning raspberry to purplish red tones. For clients seeking something different, tsavorite offers a vivid green alternative that rivals emerald in beauty but provides better durability for everyday wear.
How do I start an inherited jewellery transformation?
The process begins with a design consultation at our Delta studio. We assess your existing stones, discuss your personal style, and create a custom plan for your new necklace, ring, or pendant. Many clients choose to pair their inherited garnets with Canadian diamonds for a beautiful blend of family history and modern elegance.
How should I care for my garnet jewellery?
Clean your garnet pieces with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Store them separately from harder gemstones like diamonds to prevent scratching, and visit our studio periodically for professional prong inspections.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday or looking to modernize a sentimental family treasure, January’s stones are the perfect place to start. Are you ready to design a piece that is uniquely yours?
Book a consultation with Trish today at my Delta studio, and let’s explore the possibilities of handcrafted, custom jewellery.
