Whilst many of us swoon over gemstones for their beauty, did you know that lovers in eras past assigned meanings to them too? For example, diamonds only became popular in engagement rings during the Victorian era because their clarity and durability symbolized eternity and the strength of love’s bond, isn’t that romantic? Well, I for one love the idea of hidden messages and thought it would be fun to re-look at the meanings behind our most cherished stones. And what could be a more perfect gem to start with than Garnet, which is of course the birthstone for January – as well as the state mineral of Connecticut, and New York’s gemstone…. I never even realised US states and cities had gemstones?!……

Of course the Victorian’s weren’t the first to fall in love with semi precious stones, Garnets have been popular since Roman times! But because of the strict etiquette they lived by, the Victorians used the symbolism of these precious stones (and flowers!) to communicate their intimate emotions to those they most ardently admired. With each stone or bloom representing something different, love could be declared with a single bouquet or sentiment ring.

Whilst diamonds symbolize eternity and love’s strength, Garnet is a stone of love and passion; representing increasing commitment, honesty, hope, and faith. It may have been the birthstone of January long before the Victorians, but it was only when Tiffany & Co published 12 sweet poems (one for each month) in 1870 that they they really started to peak in popularity. January’s poem read…. “By her who in January is born,  No gem save garnets should be worn; They will ensure her constancy, True friendship, and fidelity.” Garnet is also the stone that celebrates the 2nd wedding anniversary – worth making a note of for that special occasion, don’t you think?

You don’t have to just rely on the gem alone to bring your wedding to life though! Garnet has come to mean not only the stone, but also the beautiful rich shade of red that they so often come in. So even if you prefer diamonds, emeralds or sapphires, you can still give a nod to the sentiments and symbolism with some creative incorporation of this deliciously dark hue. Here’s some ideas to get you started…..

Engagement Ring

Whether you were born in the month, planning to celebrate your big day in January, or just love the colour; garnet makes a beautiful alternative to the traditional diamond for an engagement ring…..

Garnet Engagement Ring & Wedding Ring Set ~ By Laris

Stationery

Give your guests a glimpse of your garnet theme with your stationery. Deep, dark and romantic it is a perfect shade for some olde world calligraphy, or if you’re nervous of garnet overkill on the day, just use it for your envelope…..

Stationery ~ The Nouveau Romantics // Photography ~ Taylor Lord via Green Wedding Shoes

….you can always just add a touch of it to the inside of your envelopes!

Rose Floral Envelope Liner ~ Greyberry Design

Bridesmaids Dresses

Garnet is a bold and beautiful color choice for your bridesmaids! Universally flattering it has long been a favorite of Fall brides, but it can look just as lovely in Spring or Summer…..

Bridesmaid Dresses ~ Jenny Yoo // Photography ~ Plum & Oak via Ruffled

‘Lovely as Lychee’ Dress ~ Modcloth

Bridal Bouquet

Floral Design ~ Broadturn Farm, Photography ~ Emily Delamater Photography ~ via SMP

Bridesmaids Bouquets

Or to keep them from becoming too deep, and lend them a look more becoming for Spring or Summer, bring in a few lighter tones. Soft shades of blush and pale pink, alongside plenty of mixed greenery also gives a more contemporary feel to the arrangements…..

Floral Design ~ Wallflower Designs // Photography ~ Maggie Fortson Photography via Brenda’s Wedding Blog

Jewelry

Whether in vintage or modern pieces, garnets are a gorgeous choice for brides and bridesmaids alike…..

Red Crystal Earrings ~ Poetry Jewelry

Antique Necklace ~ Maejean Vintage

Aisle Arch

Foret Design Studio // Photography ~ HENRY + MAC via SMP

Floral Centerpieces

Spruce Floral // Photography ~ Dave Bradley via Boston Magazine

Chair Decor

Sara & Rocky via Southern Weddings

Hair Accessories

Photography ~  Cadence Kennedy, Hair Pins ~ Bobby Pin via Grey Likes Weddings

Makeup

Charlotte Tillbury

Shoes

Dynamic Debut Heel ~ Modcloth

Place Settings & Tablescapes

Photography by Ashley Cook Photography via Hey Wedding Lady

 Lani Elias Fine Art Photography via Once Wed

Wedding Cake Topper

Garnet Bird Wedding Cake Topper ~ Lovenesting

Grooms Attire

You could be brave and go with a suit in this gorgeous shade….

Garnet Suit ~ ASOS

Or for something a little more subtle, offer a hint of Garnet with some well chosen accessories, like a velvet bowtie? Boutonniere? Or even just a watch?…..

Garnet Velvet Bowtie ~ Scocca Papillon

Abigail Steed Photography ~ Pom Pom Blossom

Wedding Cake

When it comes to your cake, you can either go all out and have it iced in this fabulous shade for an opulent look that will wow your guests; or for something a little more understated decorate a traditional white cake with a painted layer and some fresh flowers, or choose something all together different…..

Casey Hendrickson Photography

The Pretty Little Details Co. // Florals & Styling ~ Magdalen Hill // Photography ~ Meredith Lord via Paper + Lace

The Bespoke Cheese Company // Photography ~ Emma Barrow  via Want That Wedding

Garnet is a color I never even considered when planning our wedding – I think because I saw it as more dowdy than divine! But it’s fair to say that Spring Jewels inspiration board and this little roundup has given me a whole new appreciation for this lavish shade.

And I am already looking forward to February’s birthstone which is amethyst – I have always been partial to purple!

Amy

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