And with that, we wave goodbye to probably one of the most challenging years our world has ever had to face. Though we aren’t out of the woods yet we can surely look forward to all 2021 has to offer us. With the new year comes the birthdays of those born in January. The two zodiac signs associated with January are Capricorn and Aquarius.

Capricorns, who are born from January 1 - January 19 are one of the zodiac's most energetic and hardworking of signs as well as the birthstone of the month is the glorious Garnet! Capricorn is a sign that represents time and responsibility, and its representatives are traditional and often very serious by nature. These individuals possess an inner state of independence that enables significant progress both in their personal and professional lives.

Those born between January 20th - February 18th fall under the Aquarius zodiac sign. Aquarius-born are shy and quiet , but on the other hand they can be eccentric and energetic. However, in both cases, they are deep thinkers and highly intellectual people who love helping others. They are able to see without prejudice, on both sides, which makes them people who can easily solve problems.

The history behind the Garnet

The name “garnet” originates from the medieval Latingranatus, meaning “pomegranate,” in reference to the similarity of the red color and intricate appearance. Necklaces adorned with red garnets graced the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Signet rings in ancient Rome featured garnet intaglios that were used to stamp the wax that private and secured important documents. Perhaps the most famous garnet item was thePyrope Hair Comb, donated to the Smithsonian Institute in 1937, this victorian bohemian piece is the stuff of legends.

Garnets come from many different regions and countries. Bohemia was the primary source of the red pyrope garnets so popular during Victorian times. In the 19th century, garnets were lovingly used by the great jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé, the mastermind behind the Fabergé Egg.

Curious about your garnet birthstone’s reputed health benefits? According to Indian astrology, garnet helps eliminate negative feelings (depression, guilt) and instill greater self-confidence and mental clarity to promote creative thinking and peace of mind. In ancient and medieval times, gems like garnet were also thought to be remedies for inflammatory diseases and to soothe the angry heart. With the strange times we live in, a little bit of healing is definitely needed!

Garnet Gemstone Gift Box Closure

As the birthstone for January, garnet is said to bring love, luck, health, loyalty, and friendship to people who are born this month. Garnets are also used to celebrate 2nd wedding anniversaries. Believed to represent prosperity, abundance, and encouraging gratitude and service to others.  These are all traits that people could all benefit from! We encourage you to introduce this fine gem into your retail packaging experience. We have a lovely range of Luxury Folding Gift Boxes that would go gloriously well with ourGarnet Gemstone Closure, pre-threaded with a matching elastic cord loop.

Start 2021 off with a bang and incorporate this timeless and energetic beauty into your retail packaging. Make this year one to remember and tag us on social media so we can see how you incorporated the January birthstone in your personalised packaging.

Nicole Hines