Hessonite
Hessonite gemstone is the official birthstone of January, along with the semi-precious birthstone garnet. Hessonite is very similar to the garnet gemstone. However, it is termed a precious stone.
The hessonite is a beautiful gemstone that pleases the viewer’s eyes. We frequently assume that the lovely hessonite stone is only one color, yet it comes in a wide range of hues and variants. Over time, we’ve associated the birthstone with a number of tales and legends. Hessonite refers to a group of minerals.
Color
The 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. The hessonite stone is also found in colors like orange, yellow, and brown. Within the spectrum of these colors, there are shades, tints, and hues that vary from color to color, making lighter shades and darker shades.
Symbolism
Hessonite stones are said to have strong spiritual values, and the individual is regarded as someone wise. The hessonite is also said to promote a mellow vibe and it keeps oneself from gossiping. As stated by the Vedic astrologers in ancient times, if an individual wears a hessonite of two carats or higher, it can promote wealth and success in life. The hessonite also promotes longevity of life.
Origin
The birthstone gets its name from the Greek word ‘Esson’ which means inferior. The stone is, however, not taken as inferior in quality or price. Its name comes from the fact that it is less dense and harder than the Garnet stone. Hessonite is considered to be a truly prized possession. In Rome and Greece, the ancient people used hessonite to make jewelry. The stone is often mixed up with hyacinth, a variant of zircon, but when checked for density, it can easily be distinguished.
uses
Unlike garnet, hessonite stones are mostly used to make jewelry pieces only. The stones are said to have healing powers and can cure diseases.
Care & cleaning
Hessonite is a hard stone and doesn’t easily get damaged. However, Hessonites 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. Soaking your jewelry for a long time is also not recommended, because it might damage the stones.
Types of Hessonite
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
Red, found in India, Brazil, Sri Lanka
Pyrope
Red, found in China, South Africa, USA
Spessartine
Yellow- orangish
Grossular
Many colors, found in Tanzania, Canada
Andradite
Green, found in Finland, Poland, Russia
Uvarovite
Yellowish, found in Korea, Russia