Color
Choose a hue you enjoy, then compare its strength and evenness in different lighting. Judge stones of the same variety rather than treating all garnets as one category.
Garnet
Deep reds, fresh greens, and warm orange tones—garnet offers far more than one color.
Garnet is a family of related minerals. Its variety makes it a beautiful place to begin when choosing a colored gemstone.
- Mineral
- Garnet group
- Birthstone
- January
- Mohs hardness
- 6.5–7.5
A family of colors
Red garnets have been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Other varieties include green tsavorite and demantoid, orange spessartine, and purplish-red rhodolite. Value and rarity depend on the variety; raspberry red is not automatically the most valuable garnet.
Learn more: GIA: Garnet
Choosing your garnet
Clarity and light
Look at how inclusions affect the appearance. Some types are commonly eye-clean; distinctive inclusions can be part of a gem’s character. Compare the sparkle and overall balance of the cut.
Learn more: GIA: qualities to consider
Care
Garnet needs protection from hard knocks and rough wear. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush when suitable for the complete piece. Avoid steam cleaning; ask before using an ultrasonic cleaner, especially if a stone has fractures or fillings.
Learn more: GIA: care and cleaning
Find the right piece for you.
We can help you compare materials, choose a gemstone, and understand how to care for your jewelry.