What is a Garnet?

Garnet is a gemstone found in many nuances of red, orange, yellow, and green. However, it’s most well-known for its deep, red colour. The name comes from the Latin word for seed” granatus” – which references the pomegranate’s seeds.

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January's birthstone

Garnet is January’s birthstone. Carrying your birthstone is said to bring good luck. You can carry your own birthstone as a good luck amulet, or your loved ones’ birthstone as a symbol of love. Since the red Garnet often is connected to feelings of passion and love, Garnet jewellery would be a great gift for someone you love.

Symbolism

Garnet is a gemstone for passion, devotion, sensuality, and confidence. Garnet is thus a true power gemstone – both when it comes to love and work. The Garnet is also said to be a great companion if you want more professional or business success.

Wedding anniversary

Many gemstones are connected to a special anniversary. Jewellery with Garnet gemstones are traditionally gifted on the 2nd wedding anniversary.

History

Garnet has been used as decorations for thousands of years and can be traced back to ancient Egypt. Garnet was also used regularly worn by royals in Medieval times, where it was said to possess magical powers. Red Garnet was then referred to as ‘carbuncle’, which means ‘little spark’.

Legend

In some ancient cultures, the red Garnet was connected to blood. That’s why some people put garnets in their weapons since it was thought that this would do even more damage to the enemy. The Garnet was thought to have healing powers that could cure an array of diseases. In Medieval times, it was told that dragon’s eyes were made of Garnets.

Gemology

Garnet is especially known for its red colour, but can also be found in green, yellow, and orange. Its colour is determined by the temperatures and elements that affect the gemstone when it’s created underground. Garnet is obtained in India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Russia, the USA, South Africa and Tanzania. When you measure a gemstone’s hardness, Moh’s Hardness Scale is used. The scale varies from 1-10, where 10 is the hardest – here is the diamond, which is the hardest gemstone. Garnet is between 6.5 and 7.5 on Moh’s Hardness Scale.