15 Facts About Garnets

1. Garnets are divided into six primary species: Alamadine a deep red to reddish-brown, Pyrope a blood red to purplish-red, Spessartine an orange to reddish-orange, Grossular, Andradite a green, yellow, brown and black colors and Uvarovite a bright green.
2. A garnet symbolizes protection, love and strength. It is also believed to boost energy, passion and creativity. More about Birthstone Colors & Meanings.
3. The largest known garnet is called the open-pit Barton Garnet Mine. It is located at Gore Mountain in the Adirondack Mountain. The size is from 5–35 cm.
4. Garnets are mostly found in Brazil, India, Madagascar and the US.
5. Garnets are heavier than diamonds.
6. Garnets are formed three ways – 1) Metamorphic Formation which is the most common – when rocks are subjected to high pressure and temperature over long periods. 2) Igneous Formation – garnets form in igneous rocks such as peridotite, basalt or granite pegmatites. 3) Sedimentary Formation which is very rare – garnets don't typically form directly in sedimentary rocks; they could be transported and then concentrated into placer deposits which are riverbeds due to its high density and durability.
7. The United States produces garnets in the Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, New York and North Carolina.
8. Due to a garnet gemstone's natural beauty and the potential risk of damage to the stone it is typically not heat treated. The exception is only with the Demantoid Garnet gemstone where it is gently heated to enhance its green coloration.
9. A garnet is the modern and traditional birthstone for the month of January.
10. A garnet gemstone represents the traditional second anniversary gift. For more on this topic see Anniversary Jewelry and Gemstone Guide.
11. An garnet is a semi-precious gemstone.
12. Garnet gemstones are rated a 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale which defines a gemstone’s durability based on a scale called the Mohs hardness scale.
13. The most expensive type of garnet typically is the Demantoid garnet which is a vidid green color. The Tsavorite Garnet comes in second, which is a bright green to deep green color which is similar to an emerald gemstone.
14. The average cost of a one carat garnet is $433.00. The value of an aquamarine is measured by the "Four Cs" of gemstone grading standing for color, clarity, cut, and carat.
15. To clean garnets, use warm water and mild soap for safety. Avoid using extreme heat. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Also, steer clear of cleaning products with ammonia or alcohol.

Argentium® Silver Rhodolite Garnet Ring
Handmade by Jewelry Artist Lisa Ramos