Garnet

Scientific Name: Nesosilicate
Scientific Formula: X3Y2(SiO4)3

Garnet is a stone for lovers of the sun-drenched warm colors of Indian summer. Most buyers think of Garnet as a warm, deep red. Garnets actually occur in many bright, beautiful colors. Some very attractive Garnets come in shades of green, pale to bright yellow, fiery orange and earthy-brown tones.

The hardness of a Garnet makes it an excellent, beautiful and durable choice for everyday wear. Garnets resist wear and tear. The Garnet possesses tones which change color from outdoor to indoor lighting. The brilliance of Garnet comes from its extraordinary ability to refract light.

The Garnet has been treasured by man since the dawn of history. The Bible describes Noah using a lantern of Garnet in order to guide the Ark. Garnets are found in the jewelry of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Garnets were considered popular talismans and protective stones. People wore them for protection. In ancient times, Garnets were believed to illuminate the night, prevent evil, and provide safety to travelers on journeys. Garnets were used as weapons in Asia. Their red color was believed to increase the severity of battle wounds caused by clubs of Garnet.

The most desired hue is purple-pink, often called raspberry red. This gemstone takes its name from pomegranate, presumably because of their resemblance in color and size to pomegranate seeds. Garnets are mined mainly in African countries, but also are found in India, Russia, Central and South America. These durable gemstones are well suited for virtually any jewelry settings. Garnets are sought-after for their refractive brilliance and clarity.

A deep color raises market value. Raspberry red Garnets are considered the most precious. When purchasing, a Garnet choose the one that pleases you the most.

The Garnet should have excellent clarity.

Because of the clarity and tone, the Garnet should show high brilliance and reflect light well.