January
By her who in this month is born,
No gems save garnets should be worn;
They will insure her constant,
True friendship and fidelity.
January’s birth flowers are the carnation and snowdrop.
It takes a distinctly strong bloom to blossom in the cold winter months. As the most popular birth flower for January, carnations are a bright spot in this gloomy month. They are one of the few flowers that can bloom in cool weather, as long as temperatures remain just above freezing. Also known as the gillyflower, carnations symbolize admiration, love and distinction. They’re beautiful and simple blooms, which makes them charming both as a filler flower and as a colorful bouquet.
Snowdrops also bloom in the winter months, between January and March. In the wild, they typically cover large patches, blanketing the earth with swatches of white. Don’t let their droopy shape fool you — they symbolize hope and rebirth!
Carnations have been around for centuries, even dating back to Ancient Rome when they were used in art and decor. Its scientific name is Dianthus caryphyllus, where dianthus means “flower of the gods” in Greek. It is believed that the common name for the January birth flower was derived from the word “coronation.” Today, the carnation has retained its appeal to this day and has become one of the most popular flowers in the world.
It is believed that the first carnation bloomed when Mary’s tears hit the earth as she wept for Jesus when he carried his cross. In a famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci, Mary is depicted alongside a pink carnation, which has become a symbol of motherly love. Since the 20th century, the carnation has become a favorite flower for Mother’s Day.
Due to their playful and charming qualities, other carnation meanings include fascination, distinction, and love. As with most flowers, different colored carnations have different meanings.
• Light red carnations symbolize admiration
• Dark red carnations symbolize deep love and affection
• White carnations symbolize purity and luck
• Pink carnations symbolize gratitude
Garnet is the official birthstone for January.
The name garnet is derived from the Latin word “granate” meaning seed, due to its resemblance to a dark red pomegranate seed. The garnet is a symbol of regeneration and vitality and is known for being protective against evil spirits. Garnet gemstones can also be used for manifestation and turning one’s dreams into a reality and are useful for advancing one’s own career, or for creating inspiration and breeding creativity. Garnet also has powerful emotional healing properties, including increasing commitment, hope, and relieving depression.
Capricorns are characterized as responsible, ambitious, and disciplined.
They have a good grasp of self-control and are known for being good managers. Due to their strict discipline, they may think that they know everything and may come off as being condescending. They are known for being leaders in business yet can also be stubborn. Capricorns born in January are born from January 1st to January 19th.
Aquarius traits include being independent, humanitarian, and original.
They are known for being highly intelligent and constantly require mental stimulation or else they can get easily bored. They are good at problem-solving and always strive to help others while adapting easily to the energy around them. Despite these strengths, their weaknesses include being uncompromising or aloof. Aquarians are born naturally shy, which can make them seem cold or insensitive. However, once they feel that they can trust those around them, their energy will shine through. Aquarians born in January are born from January 20 to January 31st.
Famous January Birthdays
• Michelle Obama, First Lady of the United States, January 17, 1964
• Stephen Hawking, world-renowned theoretical physicist, January 8, 1942
• Alicia Keys, Grammy award-winning artist, January 25, 1981
• David Bowie, legendary pop singer, and songwriter, January 8, 1947
• Kate Moss, supermodel, January 16, 1974
