Our Gems

Garnet

History and Folklore

Garnet's name could be from the Latin word granatus meaning grain. This is possibly referring to the punica granatum (pomegranate) with red seeds similar to garnet crystals. Another thought is that the name came from the middle English word
gernet meaning dark red. Its history in jewelry can be traced from the Egyptians
to ancient Greek and Roman empires. It is also said that Noah developed a garnet lantern and placed it on the front of his ship to guide him during his voyage. Many believe garnets will help one heal and help with the bloodstream. It is also said to cure fever and promote good health.

Facts and Information

Garnet is actually the name for a group of minerals with common crystal structure but slightly different chemical compositions. Garnet is the birthstone for January. The garnet family is broken down into several groups.

The main groups are:

  • Pyrope - dark reddish orange to dark red and purple-red
  • Almandite - red to orangish red, purplish red to redish purple, usually darker color
  • Spessartite - reddish orange to yellow orange
  • Rhodolite - light purplish to darker purplish red
  • Grossularite - yellowish green
  • Tsavorite - light to darker green
  • Hessonite - yellowish orange to brownish orange

Gemstone Identification and Characteristics

  • Hardness: 7.5 - 8 (Depending on type)
  • R.I.: 1.67 - 1.958
  • S.G.: 3.15 - 4.20

Cleaning Methods

  • Warm, soapy water is safe
  • Usually safe in ultrasonic
  • Never use in steamer

Major Sources

  • Africa
  • Sri Lanka
  • India