Garnet: The Garnet is actually a family of gems rather than a single gemstone and comes in wide range of colors. In more recent years, the rhodolite, with its rich, violet-red hue, has been the most widely recognized and popular variety of Garnet.
The name Garnet comes from the Latin word, “granatus”, which means grain. It's possibly a reference to the pomegranate, a plant with red seeds that are similar to some garnet crystals.
Noah was said to have used a Garnet lantern to guide his Ark through the night, and King Solomon was said to have worn a large red garnet and eleven other powerful gemstones in his breastplate to assure victory in battles and to keep him closer to God.
In ancient Egypt, Garnets were taken into the tombs with the dead as payment to the gods and to secure their safe passage into the next world. In Greece, they were widely used during the reign of Alexander the Great, where he popularized using Garnets for the cutting of cameos.
In many ancient civilizations, Garnets have been found fashioned into jewelry. The early discoverers and travelers wore Garnets to keep them from harm. It was thought that Garnets illuminated the night and would protect the wearer.
Color: Garnet is comes in a rainbow of colors, the only color it can not found in is blue.
Traditional Birthstone: January
Zodiac or Magical Birthstone: Garnet is a superb stone for Leo, Capricorn and Aquarius.
Signification: Garnet has been called the gem of faith, loyalty and truth. They are said to grounding and energizing and can be helpful in unlocking memories of past lives.
It is also known to help in business. To improve your business, place 3 or more Garnets on your desktop. A garnet placed underneath your pillow will help with depression.