Garnets are a family of gemstones wherein each garnet is different yet shares a common bond with every other member of its family. Just to get an idea of how versatile they can be, here is the general formula of their chemical composition - X3Y2(SiO4)3. Various elements can take the places of X and Y in the equation, making it somewhat difficult to describe in one general definition. This variety in the chemical composition renders garnets their wide spectrum of colors and varying hardness.
Garnets are commonly thought to be of brownish red or honey brown in color but they are present in almost every color including an extremely rare blue. The hardness of each garnet also varies according to its chemical composition and ranges between 6 and 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of hardness. Hessonite, the most popular of all, scores in the range of 6.5 to 7 whereas its green sibling, Tsavorite, measures between 7 and 7.5.
It’s no wonder that such a versatile stone has a lot of meanings and history attached to it. You might find some of these particularly interesting to know.
Meaning
The word garnet itself sounds similar in some way to the second half of the word Pomegranate, doesn’t it? It’s because in old Latin granatum refers to vibrant red seeds of pomegranate which actually is a wonderful fruit for good health and a healthy libido. Likewise, red garnet is supposed to enhance the general health of its wearer. Gem quality red garnets are not difficult to find, if you visit GemsNY.
History and Lore
Calcium Aluminum Silicate commonly known as Hessonite garnet derives its name from the Greek word ‘esson’ meaning inferior which refers to its hardness which is inferior to other gemstones. Due to its low density and hardness, hessonite was easy to work with and perhaps that was the reason why the renowned thinker and philosopher Plato got his image carved in this gemstone.
Czechoslovakia, specifically Bohemia, was once the epicenter of the garnet mining and polishing industry so much so that the many Bohemian castles and churches still have garnets illuminating the walls inside. The King of Saxony is said to have a 465ct pomegranate red garnet in his treasure. The traditional Czech jewelry features small beautiful pieces of red garnet gems arranged tightly resembling pomegranate.
Symbolism and Powers
In ancient European astrology, garnet symbolizes the Sun-the lord of power and fame. Wearing a garnet is supposed to pull its wearer out of depression. Garnet is also said to possess the powers to mend strained & broken relations. Legend has that Noah used garnets to illuminate the ark after the great flood. Garnets are considered powerful talismans against bad dreams and evil forces.
The domain of trade and business is not untouched by garnet as it is said that wearing one would bring expansion of business and if you are setting up a business in a new place, placing a garnet there will ward off negative forces and bring success. Get an astrological jewelry from GemsNY to achieve success in your venture.
You can wear this power symbol of love, strength and success in rings, pendants and earrings which are available at GemsNY.
The name Garnet falls short in capturing the diversity this gemstone possesses. You will be surprised to know that Garnet is the official gem of New York and it is the state mineral of Connecticut. Star garnet, which exhibits asterism, is the official gemstone of Idaho State. This January birthstone is also a traditional gift for the second wedding anniversary.
Despite its illustrious history, Garnet remains quite an affordable gemstone available in sizes of over ten carats, something which is of envy to all other precious gemstones. For your bold and beautiful fashion statement, the strong repository of breathtaking designs and scintillating garnets such as hessonite and tsavorite, is waiting at GemsNY.
