January Birthstone Charm · Garnet in 14K Yellow Gold

This is a solid 14K yellow gold charm set with a 4mm round natural Mozambique garnet, January’s birthstone, in a polished bezel. It is sold as a charm; the chain is not included.

The piece

• Metal: Solid 14K yellow gold, never plated or filled
• Stone: 4mm round natural Mozambique garnet
• Setting: Bezel
• Size: About 14.5 x 4.8 mm
• Bail opening: 4.2 x 2.8 mm
• Chain: Not included
• Made: In the USA
• Returns: Eligible under our return policy (stock design, never engraved or sized)

The stone

Garnet takes its name from the Latin granatum, pomegranate, for crystals that resemble the fruit’s seeds. It has been set in jewelry since the Bronze Age, and Bohemian garnet defined dark red jewelry in Europe for centuries. More in our gemologist’s guide to the twelve birthstones.

A gemologist’s note

Our gemologist chose Mozambique garnet because it is a brighter, cleaner red than the brownish garnet most people picture. At 4mm, that clear color is what keeps a small stone from reading dark.

Care

Garnet is a durable 6.5 to 7.5 on the hardness scale. Clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush, then dry with a soft cloth. Take it off before swimming, cleaning with chemicals or applying lotion.