Garnet is among the most diverse of the gemstone groups, because it encompasses different species and varieties. These varieties are extraordinarily diverse in color, and some rare varieties exhibit phenomenal characteristics, such as asteriation (a star effect in pinpointed light) or a color-change effect when viewed under different lights. The deep, red varieties of garnets have been compared to pomegranate fruit, and in fact, the word “garnet” is a derivation of that name.
Garnet is the birthstone for January and may be celebrated in its many varieties, providing an array of choices for gemstone enthusiasts.
Garnet Facts:
Garnet is the birthstone for January and may be celebrated in its many varieties, providing an array of choices for gemstone enthusiasts.
Garnet Facts:
- Garnet varieties and species come in a rainbow of colors, such as red, orange, yellow and green. Blue and violet garnets are rare.
- Tsavorite (green) garnets are named for the region where they are mined near Tsavo National Park in Kenya. Yellow or orange spessartine garnets are named after Spessart, Germany, where they were discovered. Russia is a classic source for garnet, but other sources include Brazil, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Australia and the United States.
- Nature also produces “collector” garnets. Star garnets are found in Idaho; a rare form of iridescent garnet is found in Mexico and New Mexico; and garnets that change color in different light are found in Madagascar.
- Most garnets have a hardness of 7.0-7.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Andradite and grossular garnets may be softer, often between 6.0-7.0.
- Garnets can be faceted and carved as cabochon gems and beads.
- Garnets are rarely treated because of their natural clarity and color. Information about any stone known to be treated should be disclosed to the buyer.
- To minimize scratching and wear, store each piece of fine jewelry separately in a soft cloth or padded container.
- Garnet jewelry is best cleaned with warm, sudsy water and a tightly woven microfiber or other soft cloth. Avoid steam cleaning.
- Take all your fine jewelry to a professional jeweler at least twice a year for a thorough cleaning and inspection.
