Capricorn Birthstone: Garnet

The garnet gemstone is the birthstone of the month of January and is associated with the astrological Zodiac sign of Capricorn. These stones can be found throughout the world including Russia, the United States and India. However, the largest concentration of garnet gemstones is located on the African continent.

Garnet's popularity spans back many thousands of years when these beautiful red, pink, yellow, blue, green and black stones were used by the Egyptian and Roman empires in certain pieces of jewelry and ornaments. The most common color of garnet gemstones is red, and from an astrological point of view, these stones were often associated with the sun.

It's commonly thought that garnets can help solemn Capricorns achieve popularity by stabilizing friendships and encouraging interaction with their community. It can also help their romantic social side by boosting passion, vitality and sexual energy.

Historical and Fairytale Stories on Garnet Gemstones

There are many stories written about the garnet gemstones. One such story about the stones can be found written in the Old Testament of the Bible in the story of Noah. It is written that Noah used the stone to light the way in the dark. It's no big surprise then that many travelers use these stones as a talisman to guide them.

Another story, which comes from Grimms Fairytales, talks of an older woman who nurses an injured bird back to health who eventually flew away. Believing she'd never see the bird again, she was surprised to see him bring back a garnet gemstone. She placed it beside her bed and when she awoke in the night, it lighted her room.

Healing Properties of Garnet Gemstones

With the popularity of these precious stones reaching far back, it's no wonder that some cultures believe they hold healing powers. For instance, ancient Egyptians believed the garnet gemstone was an antidote for food poisoning and snakebites, as was able to rid the body of toxins. It was also thought that using the stone would ensure a long life.  Historically, healers would use the stone to treat certain medical conditions including problems with the heart, blood and lungs and mystics would use a garnet to connect with the person's root Chakra, which is said to hold a person's passion.

New Age Healing Powers of Garnet Gemstones

Garnets still hold a place in today's New Age healing, and practitioners believe that the garnet gemstone centers on the body's internal system. It is believed that garnet's red light can be absorbed by a human's body and have a positive effect on a person's muscular system - particularly appropriate for Capricorn, which is the star sign said to govern the joints.

The belief that the gemstone awakens passion and love for those who wear it is still held to by New Age healers, and can connect practical, organized Capricorns to their more impulsive, fun loving side. With it's romantic connections it's no wonder that this gemstone is often associated with special dates such as Valentine's Day, Christmas, anniversaries and birthdays and it is an ideal gift for a Capricorn to help bring out the passion in their temperament!