January Birthstone Spotlight: Garnet

Happy 2013 to everyone! Especially to all of those who get to start off the new year with their birthday and the dark red garnet. This juicy gem’s name comes from the Latin “garanatus,” meaning the color is reminiscent of the seeds of the pomegranate, although garnets can be found in orange, yellow, pink, and even blue. Though not as popular as some gems, the garnet has a solid place in history as being a beloved gem.

Garnets are relatively hard and durable, which is why garnet jewelry has been discovered as from as long ago as 3,000 B.C. It is said that Plato had his portrait carved on a garnet by a Roman engraver and the King of Saxony claimed to have a garnet of over 465 carats. The garnet was a popular gemstone during the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe, as it gained the reputation for being able to heal certain diseases and being able to protect travelers.

Garnets were also very popular in Victorian jewelry, which is why we think this pair of garnet chandelier earrings is so lovely. They bring in all of that vintage inspiration into delicate garnet briolettes cascading into tiers with pave diamonds.

Established in 1912, the King family has owned and operated King Jewelers for five generations while building an outstanding reputation steeped in quality, value, and first-class service. Today, King Jewelers has brick-and-mortar stores located in Aventura, FL and Nashville, TN, both of which have won numerous regional and national awards of distinction. Offering a magnificent selection of fine jewelry collections including the hottest Italian designs, estate jewelry, colored gemstones and fancy-colored diamonds, as well as luxury European timepieces, King Jewelers prides itself in being one step ahead of the trend. In addition, King Jewelers offers on-site jewelry and watch repairs, custom design services, appraisals, estate buying, and corporate gift programs. For more information, visit www.kings1912.com.