In Ancient Greek mythology, Persephone, daughter of Demeter, goddess of the harvest was kidnapped by Hades, god of the underworld, who fell in love with her at first sight and carried her off to his kingdom. After eating seeds from the pomegranate offered to her, she bound herself to Hades and became his wife. Demeter, mad with sorrow, hunted everywhere for Persephone, roaming the earth for ninety days looking for her daughter. She found her with Hades, and struck a bargain with him: Persephone would live four months on earth with the living, and eight months in the underworld.
Garnets are associated with love, life blood, and the human heart. Because of its similarity to pomegranate seeds, they are also symbolic of friendship, and the safe return of loved ones, just as Persephone returned to her mother every year.
In Ancient times, the gemstone was used as a talisman for protection both by warriors going into battle and those who wanted to ward off pestilence and plague. Some ancient healers and wise men even placed garnets in wounds and praised its healing powers.
The word “Bohemian” derives from the region of Bohemia, a kingdom which later became Czechoslovakia. Among other flourishing trades, this region produced gorgeous, deep red garnet gemstones and a style of jewelry that quickly became popular in the late Victorian Era and through the turn of the century.
Garnet is the birthstone for January and the stone that celebrates the 2nd anniversary of marriage.
Crafted in silver and set with thirty-seven glittering Bohemian garnets, this sweet little bar pin has a floral motif and a closed back. There is an empty locket compartment on the reverse, the perfect spot to stash a dried rosebud! This piece would also serve well as a barrette, as it has a generous space between the pin and the back. Originally, it would have served double duty, worn at the collar closure or as a hair ornament.
Circa late 1800s
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1 3/4"
Weight: 4.1 grams
Materials: Silver, Bohemian Garnet
Marks: None
Condition: Very good antique condition commensurate with age and wear. Minor chips on 2 garnets