Cabernet

Garnet Sterling Silver Pendant. 

January Birthstone!

Garnet keywords: base and heart chakras; Aquarius, Leo; love, health. Hardness: 6-7.5. Composition: complex, Magnesium aluminum silicate with manganese, chromium, and/or iron silicate. Color made under prolonged sun exposure.

"Named for the seed of the pomegranate, granatum, it is said to be good luck to be given a Garnet but bad luck to steal one. Five hundred years ago it was used to drive off phantoms and demons. Garnet is a powerfully energizing stone that protects you, and is said to warn of approaching danger, but draws harm to enemies. Traditionally used for engagement rings, Garnet inspires love and devotion and removes inhibitions and taboos. Opening the heart, it bestows self-confidence. ...Useful in a crisis, Garnet is helpful in situations where there seems to be no way out or where life has fragmented or is traumatic. It fortifies the survival instinct, bringing courage and hope. Crisis becomes challenge under Garnet’s influence, and it promotes mutual assistance. Dissolving ingrained behavior patterns and outworn ideas that no longer serve, it bypasses resistance or self-induced unconscious sabotage."

Hall, Judy. The Encyclopedia of Crystals, New Edition (p. 69). Octopus. Kindle Edition.

Silver, specifically sterling silver, will tarnish from oxidation. To prolong the shine and life of your silver jewelry:

• Avoid Wearing Silver in the Shower, Avoid Pools, and Avoid Hot Tubs or Springs. 
• Remove Jewelry When Doing Household Chores, Working Outside, or Exercising. 
• Remove Jewelry Before Going to Bed. 
  
• Avoid Contact with Lotions, Oils, and Perfumes; put your jewelry on last! 
• Clean periodically with water and mild soap, and polish with microfiber or polishing cloth. 
• Store in a cool, dry place. Pro tip: save those silica packs from a shoe purchase and add them to your jewelry storage!

Although gemstones have been used throughout recorded history, they are not to be used as a prescription, diagnosis or treatment.