January's birthstone is the garnet, a gemstone known for its rich red color, although it can also be found in a variety of other hues. Garnets are a group of silicate minerals that have been used in jewelry and decoration for thousands of years. They are believed to symbolize protection and are often associated with qualities like strength and vitality. Garnets are typically found in metamorphic rocks and can be sourced from various locations around the world, including India, Brazil, and Africa. This gemstone is durable, ranking 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry pieces.