Garnet

Primary Birthstone for: Aquarius (20th January – 18th February), Secondary Birthstone for Leo, Virgo, and Capricorn
Chakra alignment depends on colour
Properties: In the Middle Ages, garnet was the same as carbuncle, which was reputed to "glow in the dark". Even then this was considered to be on a spiritual level, and meant that the stone gave one hope in times that could be only described as the Long Dark Night of the Soul. Garnets were worn to bring luck, wealth and blessings, and were often set into shields and the hilt of swords to protect warriors against harm. It is still considered to be the crisis stone, and engenders a feeling of community in difficult times. It promotes self-confidence and eliminates unnecessary inhibitions, and encourages a balanced approach to sexuality. It fortifies the powers of regeneration in the body. It is also known as the Hero Stone, as it often looks ordinary until polishing brings out its fire and colour, just as life's trials and difficulties are seen as a polishing process for the character.

Garnets come in a wide range of colours, with each colour having a slightly different chemical formula.