The provided sources primarily focus on collectible figurines and pins featuring Disney’s Tinker Bell, with a specific connection to the garnet as January’s birthstone. While these sources do not offer a comprehensive overview of garnet’s gemological properties, historical significance, or lore, they establish a modern association between Tinker Bell and this gemstone, particularly within the context of Disney collectibles. This article will explore this connection, detailing the various Tinker Bell collectibles featuring garnets and related imagery, and briefly outlining the limited information available about garnet from these sources.
A Modern Association: Tinker Bell and January’s Gem
The most direct link between Tinker Bell and a gemstone is found in the Jim Shore Disney Traditions figurine, “January Tinker Bell.” This figurine, introduced in 2010, depicts Tinker Bell holding a carnation (January’s flower) and wearing a necklace adorned with a garnet. This piece explicitly connects the character to the birthstone of January, positioning Tinker Bell as a representative of this month. The figurine is crafted from stone resin, a material commonly used in collectible sculptures, and is presented in its original packaging, suggesting its value as a collectible item.
Beyond this specific figurine, numerous pins and collectibles feature Tinker Bell, often linked to seasonal events or special releases. Several pins depict Tinker Bell in various themes, including Halloween, Christmas, and springtime, and some are limited edition releases, increasing their collectibility. The frequent release of limited-edition Tinker Bell pins demonstrates the character’s enduring popularity among collectors. While not all pins directly feature a garnet, the consistent association of Tinker Bell with collectible items reinforces the connection to gifting and special occasions, aligning with the tradition of birthstone jewelry.
The Collectible World of Tinker Bell
The sources reveal a vibrant market for Tinker Bell collectibles. Pins, figurines, and other items are frequently listed for sale, with prices varying widely depending on rarity, condition, and edition size. Limited edition pins, such as the “Disney Shopping Tinker Bell Blue Birthstone September Purse 2009 LE 250 Pin Rare” and the “Disney Auctions Tinker Bell and Thistle - LE 100 Pin,” command higher prices due to their exclusivity. The presence of pins from Disney Auctions further indicates a dedicated collector base willing to pay premium prices for unique items.
The variety of collectible formats is also notable. Beyond figurines and pins, the sources list items like snowglobes, luggage tags, magnets, and even a miniature brass bell. This diverse range of products demonstrates Disney’s successful branding of Tinker Bell across multiple merchandise categories. The inclusion of items like a “Cast Service Award” pin featuring Tinker Bell highlights the character’s significance within the Disney organization itself.
Garnet: A Limited View from the Sources
The provided sources offer minimal direct information about the garnet itself. The “January Tinker Bell” figurine is the primary source of information, identifying garnet as the birthstone for January. No details regarding the gem’s geological formation, chemical composition, or historical uses are provided. The sources do not delve into the symbolism or metaphysical properties associated with garnet.
However, the consistent association of garnet with January, even within the context of a Disney collectible, reinforces the gemstone’s established role as a traditional birthstone. The figurine’s design suggests a visual representation of garnet, though the specific color or cut of the gemstone is not detailed.
Tinker Bell Pins: A Chronological Overview
The sources provide a glimpse into the chronological release of Tinker Bell pins, spanning from 2002 to 2025. This timeline demonstrates the sustained interest in Tinker Bell collectibles over several decades.
Here's a summarized table of pin releases, based on the provided sources:
| Year | Pin Description | Edition Size (if available) |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Disneyland Happy Holidays Present Pin | LE 3500 |
| 2002 | 6 Pin Set M & P Store Peter Pan | LE 1800 |
| 2004 | Disney Auctions Tinker Bell Wand | LE 1000 |
| 2004 | Tinker Bell Through the Decades (1980's) | LE 100 |
| 2005 | Disney DLR Parade of Dreams Figaro & Cleo | LE 2005 |
| 2006 | Tinker Bell Christmas Snow | LE 250 |
| 2006 | WDI Tinker Bell on Peter Pan's Flight | LE 300 |
| 2008 | Walt Disney World Leap Day | LE 2500 |
| 2009 | Disney Shopping Tinker Bell Purse | LE 250 |
| 2010 | Tinker Bell Starter Set | N/A |
| 2010 | DS Tinker Bell Puppet Capt Hook & Tick-Tock | LE 250 |
| 2011 | Disney DCL Tinker Bell | R92 |
| 2011 | Tinker Bell Character Cupcake | N/A |
| 2012 | N/A | N/A |
| 2025 | Disney New Year Mystery | N/A |
Note: This table is based solely on the information provided in the sources and may not be a comprehensive list of all Tinker Bell pin releases.
Care and Maintenance (Based on Material)
Given the prevalence of stone resin figurines and metal pins in the sources, providing care instructions based on these materials is relevant. Stone resin figurines should be dusted regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. Pins, particularly those with metallic components, should be stored in a protective case or pin board to prevent scratching and tarnishing. Regular cleaning with a soft polishing cloth can help maintain their shine.
Conclusion
The provided sources, while limited in scope, demonstrate a strong association between Tinker Bell and the garnet, particularly within the realm of Disney collectibles. The “January Tinker Bell” figurine serves as a focal point, explicitly linking the character to the birthstone of January. The extensive range of Tinker Bell pins and collectibles highlights the character’s enduring popularity and the vibrant market surrounding Disney memorabilia. While the sources offer little direct information about the garnet itself, they reinforce its established status as a traditional birthstone and its connection to the month of January. The consistent release of limited-edition collectibles underscores the value placed on these items by collectors and fans alike.