January

Introduction

Out of all those magnificent gemstones, which one you should pick? Well, it may be the gem that reflects your personality, it may be the birthstone that you feel most connected to, it may be the birth gem that you like the most or that suits you better, or it may be all of them. In other words, the choice is ultimately yours!

We are always intrigued about possessing a gemstone that is more than just a gem. A rock with spiritual and mental connection, something close to our heart and soul - a birthstone. A large portion of our oneness is derived from the time of the year we were born. Annette Wynne’s poem goes:

“I'm January bringing you

A year of days—all brand, brand new;

I step upon the frosty ground.

When chimes and sleighbells ring around”

Most birthstone lists are based on bible mentionings of Aaron's breastplate gemstones or the gems from the foundation of New Jerusalem. I have used the 4 most unique arrangements of birthstones: by birth month, guardian angel birthstones, by zodiac sign, and special apostle birthstones list.

Garnet - January birthstone - birth dates between January 1 and 31

Garnets are found in many parts of the world and were known to people centuries ago. Because garnets are softer than gems like diamonds, sapphires, or rubies, they were often used for engravings. They were also carved into heads of emperors or gods.

Garnets were long believed to possess mystical powers to assure the birthstone wearer of good health and friendship. In Persia this birth gem was considered a talisman from nature's forces like storm and lightning. It was widely accepted that garnet could signal approaching danger by turning pale. During the middle ages this birthstone was its own protection against theft, bringing misfortune to the thief until the stone was returned to the rightful owner.

Ancient legends attributed to garnet calming influence over hot tempered individuals. Psychoanalysts used garnets in their sessions. This birthstone was a symbol of faith, constancy, and cheerfulness. Parting friends would often present garnets to each other as it was supposed to preserve friendship. Just like with other gemstones, garnets’ powers were believed to intensify if it was worn as a birthstone. Garnets were also highly valued as engagement ring gems if they were a person's birthstone.

Onyx - January guardian angel birthstone - birth dates between 1 and 31 of January

Onyx is one of the earliest gems mentioned in the bible, and it also appears in ancient writings. It was often used in breastplates of warriors and amulets of adventurers because it was believed to have the powers of protection against harm and danger. It was also thought that onyx aided women at childbirth if worn as an amulet or in a ring. Such onyx amulet was presented by English King Ethelred II to St Alban’s abbey church and was on display for everyone to see.

Greek, Roman and other ancient lapidaries tried to cut the gemstone in a way to display its fascinating patterned lines, especially to reveal an eye. Gem cut in that manner was considered a powerful protection from an evil eye. Later Romans would be carving Mars and Hercules onyx figures as they were to make the wearer brave and fearless.