Garnet: January's Birthstone (And Why It's Perfect for Your Piercing)

If you've ever wondered what the deal is with birthstones, you're not alone. The tradition goes back centuries. Different cultures assigned gemstones to each month based on everything from astrology to what stones were available at the time. These days, birthstones are less about ancient mysticism and more about personal meaning. They're a way to wear something that feels connected to you, your story, or the people you love.

And for January, we’ve got garnet. Deep, rich, and way more interesting than you might think.

So... what exactly is garnet?
Most people picture garnet as that classic dark red stone, almost wine-colored, with a warmth that feels both vintage and timeless. And yeah, that's the most common variety. But here's the thing: garnet isn't actually just one stone. It's a whole family of minerals. You've got red garnets, sure, but also purples (rhodolite), oranges, and even rare greens like tsavorite. Think of it less like "garnet = red" and more like "garnet = a bunch of cousins who all look a little different."
For jewelry purposes, though, that traditional red is what most people love. It's bold without being loud. It goes with everything. And it has this depth to it that photographs beautifully, especially when it's set in gold.

Why garnet works so well in piercings
Here's where garnet really shines (pun intended): it's tough. Like, actually durable enough for everyday wear. Garnet ranks around 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which means it holds up to the normal bumps and knocks of daily life. That makes it a great choice for all kinds of piercings: ears, nostril, navel, wherever you want a little color. We've had clients wear garnet threadless ends in helix piercings for years without issue. It's also gorgeous in a septum ring or a navel curve if you want something a bit more statement-making.

Unlike softer stones (looking at you, opal), garnet doesn't require a ton of babying. You can live your life, and your jewelry will keep up.

Why people choose birthstone jewelry for their piercings
This is where it gets personal. Some people just love their own birthstone. It feels like wearing a little piece of themselves. We see that a lot with January babies who've always loved garnet and finally have an excuse to get it in a piercing. But honestly? A lot of people choose birthstones that aren't their own. Parents get their kids' birthstones. Partners get each other's. We've had clients choose a stone to honor someone they've lost, a way to keep that person close. There's something really meaningful about that, and garnet's deep red color lends itself to that kind of significance. It feels grounded. Lasting.

There's no wrong reason to choose a birthstone. If it means something to you, that's enough.

A little garnet history (because it's cool)
Garnet has been around forever, and we mean forever. Archaeologists have found garnet jewelry in burial sites that are over 5,000 years old. People in ancient Egypt and the Bronze Age were already choosing this stone for adornment, which means you're kind of participating in a tradition that spans millennia. Not bad for a little piece of jewelry.
There's also this old belief that garnet was a traveler's stone. Sailors and wanderers used to carry it for protection on journeys, which is why it became associated with safe passage and guidance. If you're someone who loves to travel, or you're marking a big life transition, that backstory adds a nice layer of meaning.

Ready to add some garnet to your setup?
Whether you're treating yourself to your birthstone or choosing one that tells a story, garnet is a solid, beautiful option that'll last. We've got a range of styles in the studio. Come by and see what speaks to you.

Book your appointment here and let's find the perfect piece.