Garnet: A Rich Tapestry
Garnet is known as the gem of eternal love. The use of Garnet dates back thousands of years, when it was used by Egyptian pharaohs for both decorative and ceremonial purposes. Garnet is the birthstone for January.
RHODOLITE GARNET
Rhodolite Garnet is a luscious raspberry red with hints of purple and pink. Rhodolite garnet is named after the vibrant blooms of the mountain rhododendron, which thrives in the Appalachian regions where the stone is mined. The name "Rhodolite" originates from the Greek word "rhodon," signifying "rose-colored."
Color: Rhodolite garnet exhibits a remarkable range of colors, typically ranging from pinkish-red to purplish-red or raspberry-red hues. The name "rhodolite" is derived from the Greek word "rhodon," meaning rose.
Composition: Rhodolite garnet is a variety of the garnet mineral belonging to the almandine-pyrope series. It is composed of a combination of aluminum, iron, and silica.
Origin: Major sources of rhodolite garnet include Brazil, Sri Lanka, India, Tanzania, and the United States (North Carolina and Maine). The gemstone's color can vary slightly based on its origin
Clarity: Rhodolite garnets are often found with good transparency and fewer inclusions, contributing to their overall brilliance and desirability.
Durability: Garnets, in general, have a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making rhodolite garnet suitable for various types of jewelry.
Cut and Shape: Rhodolite garnets are commonly cut into a variety of shapes, including rounds, ovals, cushions, and emerald cuts. The cut is designed to maximize the gem's brilliance and showcase its color.
Jewelry Use: Rhodolite garnet is a popular choice for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Its versatile color makes it suitable for both contemporary and vintage designs.
Symbolism: Rhodolite garnet is associated with love and compassion. Its warm and inviting hues make it a symbol of affection, making it a thoughtful choice for romantic and meaningful jewelry pieces.
Care: While durable, rhodolite garnet, like all gemstones, requires proper care to maintain its beauty. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
MOZAMBIQUE GARNET
Mozambique Garnet is a fiery red color, in the warm wine-red hue that Garnets are best known for. Mozambique Garnet featured prominently in Victorian and antique jewelry.
Color: Mozambique garnet typically exhibits a deep red to reddish-brown color. The stone's color is often compared to the deep red tones of a pomegranate.
Composition: Mozambique garnet is part of the garnet family, and its specific composition includes a combination of aluminum, iron, and silica.
Origin: As the name suggests, Mozambique garnet is primarily sourced from Mozambique, a country in southeastern Africa. The gemstone is also found in other regions, including Madagascar, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka.
Clarity: Mozambique garnets are generally found with good transparency and can exhibit a vitreous luster, adding to their overall visual appeal.
Durability: Garnets, including Mozambique garnet, have a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for various types of jewelry.
Cut and Shape: Mozambique garnets are commonly cut into various shapes, such as rounds, ovals, cushions, and emerald cuts. The cut is designed to enhance the gem's brilliance and showcase its deep red color.
Jewelry Use: Mozambique garnet is a popular choice for different types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Its rich red hues make it an appealing gemstone for both classic and contemporary designs.
Symbolism: Garnets, in general, are associated with passion, love, and energy. Mozambique garnet, with its intense red color, symbolizes deep emotions and commitment.
Care: While durable, Mozambique garnet, like all gemstones, requires proper care to maintain its beauty. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
SPESSARTITE GARNET
Sometimes called Mandarin Garnet, Spessartite Garnet or Spessartine, is a radiant orange. Vivid and extremely brilliant, Spessartite is prized by collectors.
TSAVORITE GARNET
One of the rarest of Garnets, Tsavorite Garnet is a vivid, glowing green and resembles an emerald. It's known for its intense color and exceptional clarity, and was named for the Tsavo National Park in Kenya where it was discovered.
Color: Tsavorite garnet is prized for its vivid green color, ranging from a bright, grassy green to a deep and rich forest green. The stone's color is often compared to the lush greenery found in Tsavo National Park in Kenya, which inspired its name.
Composition: Tsavorite garnet is a variety of grossularite garnet, and its green color is attributed to the presence of vanadium and chromium.
Origin: The primary source of Tsavorite garnet is East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. These gemstones are also found in smaller quantities in Madagascar and other locations.
Clarity: Tsavorite garnet is known for its exceptional clarity and minimal inclusions. High-quality Tsavorites often exhibit transparency and brilliance, enhancing the overall appeal of the gem.
Durability: Garnets, including Tsavorite, have a hardness ranging from 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for various types of jewelry.
Cut and Shape: Tsavorite garnets are commonly cut into various shapes, such as rounds, ovals, cushions, and emerald cuts. The cut is designed to maximize the gem's brilliance and showcase its vibrant green color.
Jewelry Use: Tsavorite garnet is a popular choice for high-end jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Its intense green hues and exceptional clarity make it a sought-after gemstone for fine jewelry pieces.
Rarity and Value: Tsavorite garnet is considered one of the rarest and most valuable garnet varieties. Its scarcity, combined with its vibrant color, contributes to its high market value.
Symbolism: Tsavorite garnet is associated with vitality, growth, and prosperity. Its lush green color symbolizes the rejuvenating power of nature.
Care: While durable, Tsavorite garnet, like all gemstones, requires proper care to maintain its brilliance. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Tsavorite garnet's captivating green hues and rarity make it a prized gemstone for those seeking a vibrant and exceptional addition to their jewelry collection. Whether chosen for its symbolic meaning or its aesthetic appeal, Tsavorite garnet continues to enchant gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs alike.
A gift of Garnet jewelry is considered the utmost declaration of love. Create a custom Garnet ring, anniversary band or Mother's ring with this beautiful stone.