Formula : Mg3Al2(SiO4)3 / Fe3Al2(SiO4)3
Garnet appears in a variety of colours. Usually these varieties share common characteristics. At DiamondsByMe we offer both the almandine garnet and rhodolite garnet varieties.
For more information on rhodolite, click here.
Birth stone for the month of January
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Mineral hardness (Mohs)
Particular hardness: 7,25 / 7,5
A garnet can only be scratched by materials that are of equal or higher hardness. Sapphire might scratch a garnet for example. Generally garnet is very tough, preventing it from breaking easily. However, if the stone contains many impurities or flaws there is relatively higher chance the stone might break.
Colour
Garnet is well known for its red colour, however, many people are unaware that garnet appears in different other shades and colours. These colour varieties range from red and pink to green and orange. At DiamondsByMe we offer red garnet. Our almandine garnet is a deep brown however, or even a reddish purple.
Origin & History
Garnet is most commonly found in: Brazil, India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, USA, Zambia.
According to ancient legend, garnet gives its wearer power and energy. Additionally the gem was said to provide perseverance and confidence, as well as hope and courage.
Care
Garnet, like amethyst, has been used in jewellery since times immemorial because it will not break easily and has a beautiful colour. Garnet is sensitive to rapid great changes in temperature. We do not recommend dipping the stone into ice water on a hot summer day, there is a real chance the rapid change in temperature may cause the stone to crack or even shatter.
Imitations
Your usual imitation garnets are made from: ruby, red spinel, tourmaline.
Nowadays these imitations are rarely used. Instead, these imitations will be found more frequently in older jewellery.
Cut
Garnet may appear in any number of cuts. Usually the facetted cut is preferred for garnets, as it creates the most spectacular effect. In older jewellery garnet was often cut cabochon. If these garnets possessed an intense colour they were called carbuncles. The appropriate cut is decided on after assessing the colour and quality of the stone.
Jewellery with Garnet can be found here: