GArnet January
The Garnet gemstone is a beauty to the eye and mind. It is the birthstone of January and is termed a Semi-precious stone. We often assume the beautiful garnet stone to have just one color, but it comes in various colors and varieties. We associate the birthstone with several myths and legends over the period of time. Garnets are a group of several minerals. The garnet stone is a January Birthstone and the official gem for second anniversaries.
Color
The semi-precious stone is typically associated with the color red. However, it is found in colors other than red as well. Red is the most prominent one and also the most renowned color all around the world. Apart from red, the garnet stone is found in orange, brown, black, purple, yellow, and green. The most unique and rare color found in the garnet stones is the color blue.
Symbolism
The garnet stone symbolizes vitality, love, and light. In the olden times, it was used as protective stones and was used as a shield to protect the person using them. Warriors and royals used this stone in enormous quantities, and this helped increase its popularity.
Origin
The name of the Garnet gemstone originates from the Latin word “Granatus” which means a seed or grain. The word garnet came into existence because the seed resembles the inside of a pomegranate. The January birthstone is also rumored to keep travelers safe. Garnet gemstones are in use for a very long time ago for two purposes.
uses
The garnet gemstone has several uses as well. It is primarily used in jewelry and it is also used in abrasives and various other industrial purposes.
Care & cleaning
Garnets are hard stones and don’t easily get damaged. However, Garnets can easily be dented by scratches, hence it is advisable to not let them mix with other hard stones. If you plan on doing physical activity, it is advisable to keep the gemstone separate and protect it from potential damage. Ultrasonic cleaners can clean garnets, but it is not something recommended since long-time usage of it can loosen the jewelry settings. It is highly recommended to clean your precious garnet stones with a soft brush and warm soapy water only.
Types of Garnet
The hessonite stone has mainly six types based on the color and place from where they are mined. The six types are Pyrope, Almandine, Spessartite, Grossular, Andradite, Uvarovite.
Almandine
Common,
Dark reddish to Reddish-brown
Pyrope
Well-known variety
Spessartine
Bright orange color and unique brilliance
Grossular
Colorless, impurities can change it to beautiful colors
Andradite
Most sparkly variety
Uvarovite
Only in green color