The Many Colors of Garnet

This name is like a big umbrella covering a variety of stones that are all very similar in chemical composition. The difference between these silicates is where they are mined and the metal particles found in the silicate. Magnesium, iron, chromium and aluminum give each garnet gemstone its unique shade of red or other color.

garnett shoes

Ancient Greeks and Romans thought the deep red gem resembled a pomegranate seed because of its color and round shape. They were very fond of the gems and used them in their jewelry and other embellishments. In ancient Egypt, Cleopatra wore the red gem probably thinking it was a ruby. Back then, they didn't know that this gem came in more colors than just red.

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There are about 14 different varieties and most are mined in Africa. Tanzania, Namibia and parts of South Africa are common mining locations. Europe, Asia, Australia and the United States also have gem deposits. Carl Faberge used the emerald green stones found in the Urals of western Russia in many of his pieces.

A multitude of colors

Though the word garnet is tied to the word red, there are actually many different colors available. In fact, every color along the spectrum can be found except for blue. The most valuable gem is not even red, it is emerald green.

The varieties, demantoid and tsavorite, are the two most popular green stones and they can be quite expensive because of their rarity. With the discovery of new mines in Namibia, they may become more common.

However, the shades of red are still classic and always will be. But, if the traditional idea of a garnet necklace is not appealing, consider a yellow, black or even orange stones to drape your neck. It is all a matter of taste.

January birthstone

The garnet is the official birthstone for January. It is also the gem for the Zodiac sign of Aquarius, so some lucky February babies can claim it as their birthstone as well. Another official occasion that warrants a gift of garnet earrings or some other piece is the 2nd wedding anniversary.

How to care for garnet jewelry

Depending on the variety, these gems range from a 6 to a 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that they are quite durable and suitable for daily wear in all types of jewelry. They are not as delicate as other gems with the same rating because there is no cleavage present which makes it easier for the stone to split. It also makes it easier for the cutter.

A soak in warm soapy water should be sufficient to clean the grime that collects from daily wear. If lotion or soap remains in the setting, a quick scrub with a toothbrush is safe and will not scratch the stone.

Whether the stone is emerald green or violet red, it makes a beautiful and versatile piece of jewelry. A garnet pendant set in silver or gold can be worn casually or with formal wear. Whatever the need is, this gemstone offers a solution with its many shades of reds and other colors.

The Many Colors of Garnet

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Garnet - The Birthstone For January

Garnet, the birthstone for the month of January, has been in use since time immemorial. Garnet rings and Garnet earrings make a wonderful gift for any occasion.

garnett shoes

Availability
Garnets are found in many places including Kenya, Sri Lanka, Mexico, China, India, Canada and USA. One of the largest garnet deposits have been found in New York.

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Garnets are available in many colors including red, orange, yellow and green. They are usually available in the shops as a deep-red colored gemstone. Shades of green and yellow are not uncommon; however, blue garnet is a rarity. Garnets exhibit great brilliance, due to their high refractive index. The shape of a garnet is generally round like that of a grain; hence, the name. The color and shape of garnets resemble that of ripe pomegranate seeds.

Composition and Varieties
Garnets are basically silicate minerals, composed of silicon and oxygen, along with minerals like manganese, magnesium, Iron, aluminum or Calcium. Garnets are actually a family of minerals having similar physical and crystalline properties. Six common species of garnets are recognized based on their chemical composition.

They are pyrope (red), almandine (deep red to purple), spessartine (red to fiery orange), grossularite (brownish yellow), uvarovite(green, due to presence of chromium) and andradite (black or vivid green). Of these, the best known and largely available is the red garnet, the pyrope. The most prized among the green garnets-the andradites- is the rare demantoid.  

Properties and Uses
Garnets are fairly hard (7-7.5 on the Mohs scale) and hence, are easier to maintain or to work with.  Although their primary use is as a gemstone, they are also used for abrasive purposes as well. Garnets are the symbol for health and passion. They help stimulate the blood flow in the body and help in controlling depression or negative feelings by provoking the pituatary glands.

The garnet is also the stone for the second year wedding anniversary. Further, it is known as the stone responsible for a successful business. The price of the garnets varies with the availability of the particular type in the area, and the desired quality. A 10mm red garnet is available at an affordable price range of 5 to 10 USD per carat

Garnet - The Birthstone For January

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Garnet Rings - The Symbol of Friendship, Love and Devotion

Garnet rings look very attractive and you can find beautiful rings for sale at almost all the gemstone and jewelry stores. These can be wonderful gifts for the people born in January and those who are celebrating their second anniversary. Garnet based rings are available for both men and women. It does not mean that women can only receive gifts. They also buy these rings for their husband and present it to them on their second anniversary or on their birthday and show their love and devotion towards them and towards the relationship with them.

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You can buy garnet jewelry rings for sale for their beauty and their durability. These rings are great for daily wear and you can use them daily without much care. Garnets are fairly durable and hard and have a deep burgundy color. The beautiful color can easily capture anyone's attention. If you want to catch the charm of fire and warmth then go and take a look at garnet jewelry for sale and buy the one that you like.

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This gemstone is little harder than other gemstones and is one of the ancient stones that are known today. It is a semi-precious stone and you can find it in different shades of red, orange, pink and green. These can also change colors when you see them n lights of different types and colors. Rings with Garnets are available worldwide although garnets are mined mainly in India, Tanzania, Kenya, Sri Lanka and some parts of Africa.

At times people get confused between garnets and Ruby because of the deep red color. This means that garnet rings for sale are great opportunity for those who always wanted Ruby rings or who wanted to gift Ruby Rings. Although Garnet is a semi-precious stone, it has historic importance and you can find its mention in Bible as well. Earlier people wore this rings and other garnet jewelry to seek safety and protection when they travelled.

If you take a look at Garnet rings for sale then you would get an idea of the huge variety of designs available. These designs can then further be categorized in to different styles. You can select and buy the designs and styles that suit your personality. If you think that there are many other gemstones that you can buy and what is so special about garnet then read the following points:

• Nothing looks more sophisticated and gorgeous than garnets; their luminous red captures the heart of many.
• If you wear garnets, you will clearly notice that the gem changes its color in different lights. Try to notice this when you see garnet rings for sale.
• Garnet rings can be perfect engagement rings and wedding rings because they are durable enough to be worn daily. Moreover, garnets are symbol of love and devotion.
• Garnets have always been in trend and you can wear your garnet ring with any outfit. You can even pass it on o your children as a gift from you.

Apart from these reasons another good reason for buying garnet rings is that garnet rings for sale are available at very affordable prices and they do not hurt your pockets too much.

Garnet Rings - The Symbol of Friendship, Love and Devotion

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Silver Garnet Earrings

When buying garnet earrings, it is important to understand how to evaluate the quality and value of garnet gemstones, in order to make a wise purchase. The quality of a garnet is affected by its color, cut and clarity. The challenge with red garnets is finding some that are not too dark. A garnet gemstone that is very dark will not reflect light nor sparkle. This is important when selecting garnets to wear as earrings. When garnets are placed on the ears, they are not as likely to receive direct light onto them, as say a ring or a bracelet. So it is important to make sure that there is sparkle within the stone; that it shows its beauty, albeit differently, in every kind of lighting situation.

garnett shoes

Garnets are a nice selection for the ears because of their high luster. They polish to an almost mirror-like finish. So even if you step into a shadow, or your hair is blocking the light, the garnets surface (table facets) will still reflect light.

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When choosing silver garnet earrings, you should be mindful of the size of the earrings you choose and how they compare to the size and shape of your ears. Though larger garnet earrings are more valuable and luxurious, if they are put in small ears, their beauty can be lost in the imbalance. For small ears, less can be more.

When buying your garnet earrings set in silver, it is important to understand that all silver tarnishes with time. In fact, some jewelry designs come purposefully tarnished: it is called "oxidized". Whether you buy it bright or "oxidized" you should be mindful that the silver will eventually grow dark, and that the design should remain attractive even with dark metal, or you should be prepared to polish or buff regularly. (Tip: more complex, intricate silver work can look good tarnished). Otherwise, it is possible to buy earrings that have been plated, e.g. with Rhodium to reduce the tarnish.

And finally, when buying silver garnet earrings, it is a good idea to buy from a place with a money back guarantee: you want to make sure you love them before you're stuck with them.

Silver Garnet Earrings

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Garnet Jewelry

Garnet in its most commonly recognized form appears in rich red, but its mineral variations come in a range of colors from brown and black, oranges, pink and even green. These include grossular garnet (or grossularite), rhodonite, almandine, hessonite, and spessatite (or spessartine), tsavorite and a whole host of others.

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Garnet is a very energizing stone which cleanses the chakras, bringing passion or serenity as needed. It inspires love and balances the sex drive, and is an excellent stone for times of crisis. Garnet is also protective when worn traveling, and opens the heart and makes the wearer more confident.

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Measuring 6.5-7 on Moh's scale, it approximately as hard a porcelain and is similar to quartz. While it will not scratch easily, internal fracturing is common. This can add to the natural beauty of the stone, but with repeated dropping fractures can result in broken stones.

Red garnet is the most common form of the gem and is widely available. Some manufacturer dye the gems to enhance the tones of inferior specimens, and these should always be stored away from wet surfaces and strong sunlight. Good quality garnet is relatively easy to come by, so it is always worth asking your jeweler about the treatment process. Most other varieties of garnet are rarer and are typically more expensive, but an A grade red garnet in a gem cut designed for a ring setting can easily rival them.

Sterling silver garnet jewelry is a stunning pairing of opposites. The warm tones of red garnet with the icy coolness of silver make for a striking finish, and it is not difficult to see why this is such a popular form of jewelry. Deep red garnet suits nearly anyone and, when used with larger amounts of silver can be added to almost any outfit palate.

Cleaning sterling silver garnet earrings and necklaces is quite simple due to the sturdy nature of the stone. Warm, soapy water is the best option for removing the bulk of tarnish and accumulated grime. For more intensive cleaning, garnet jewelry can be cleaned in ultra-sonic cleaners and steel-shot tumblers, using non-abrasive cleaning products, and most jewelers will offer this service at a small fee. As with all jewelry, the safest form of cleaning is prevention. Garnet jewelry should be stored in air tight boxes, and should not come in contact with perfumes and body lotions.

Garnet jewelry is a classic gift that suits women of all ages and silver garnet earrings are one of the most popular jewelry purchases on the current jewelry market.

Garnet Jewelry

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Garnet Birthstone Jewelry

Garnet birthstone jewelry has been known to have healing properties, due to the unique properties of the garnet stone. The red garnet have been known to improve blood circulation, reduce heart palpitations and remove toxins from the body, as a matter of fact there are still places in the world where people would wear garnet jewelry because of their belief in its healing properties. Antique garnet jewelry has also been associated to provide courage and stability to the wearer. Some ancient warriors would wear garnet gemstones whenever they would go to battle due to this particular belief. There are some who believe that garnet jewelry gives a calming effect and is known to protect the wearer from anger as the garnet would absorb the negative feelings. The same belief also says that danger may befall the wearer if the garnet would start to lose its luster.

garnet necklace

Garnet stones come in different shades - violet, orange, yellow, green, brown, black, red or colorless. Among all these shades, the most famous would be red. This is the reason why most garnet gemstone jewelry comes in this particular shade. The difference between a ruby and garnet can be determined by its color elements.

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There are a lot of websites where you can purchase garnet birthstone jewelry. These websites would be able to provide you the price as well as the design that you would be looking for. Garnet jewelry can be dramatic due to the color of the garnet stone. This is ideal when it comes to different settings. You would mostly find garnet rings, earrings and more with a mixture of diamonds and garnets, as the contrast can be most flattering to anyone who would wear it.

Antique garnet jewelry (even those that are faux antique and just styled to look vintage) is also very popular and stylish these days. In order to know that you are getting good quality garnet gemstones, it would always be wise to consult a professional prior to the purchase. This way, you would be able to know that you are getting the correct value for your money. Garnet birthstone jewelry is an excellent choice for those born in the month of January, and is a wonderful alternative to more common stones, offering a unique, vibrant and beautiful flair!

Garnet Birthstone Jewelry

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Red Crystals and Gemstones - Healing Properties of Carnelian and Red Garnet

Carnelian Ancient Egyptian Source of Renewal

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Known as the Artist's Stone it activates creativity, possibly unearthing hidden talent or latent gifts. It is an excellent stone for relieving depression, grounding, overall well-being; aids in focusing thoughts, intensify concentration, increase physical energy.

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Being a part of the Red Crystal and Gemstone family, it resonates with both the Root or Basic Chakra and the Sacral Chakra. Use this wonderful stone to cleanse and balance your Base Chakra, aligning yourself with feeling more secure and grounded.

Ancient Egyptians believed Carnelian to be a source of vitality, sustaining the cycle of re-birth and renewal. There are references to the use of Carnelian in the Egyptian Book of the Dead. High Priests used this beautiful stone material for their Chalice as it is has the unique quality of retaining the vibration of that which was placed within. Many Chalices contained or had Silver linings molded to it, representing the Moon's cycles of renewal and purity of its shimmering light in the night sky.

Working with Carnelian will encourage a sense of self-trust, enabling the wearer to better discern the many choices before them. Drinking Carnelian charged water will create a sense of empowered motivation in someone who may be a bit under-motivated. It will also aid relieving depression, increasing one's sense of self-esteem and self-empowerment.

It can be used as a focal point during meditation or placed on the Third Eye to cleanse, balance and align your inner sight with that of the physical realm.

*Angelic Realm Association: Archangel Raziel whose name means "Secret of God" will assist you, when asked, to remember who you truly are.

*Healing Properties: relieves depression, stone for overall well-being, heighten concentration, increase physical energy, absorb and repel negativity.

*Vibrational Frequency: high energy, vitality, stabilizes excess nervous energy.

*Spiritual Properties: assists the Soul on along its journey through the physical plane, assists with being in the present moment.

Being a personal favorite, it is one of the many crystal and gemstone bracelets I wear daily!

Red Garnet Good Luck Stone

The Pomegranate Seed is the inspiration for the naming of this precious stone. Its unique fiery red energy is unlike any other. In days gone by, the Garnet was used to ward off demons, protecting its wearers from phantoms in the darkness of night.

Resonating with the second or Sacral Chakra, the Garnet aligns the wearer with abundance and prosperity, protection, enhancing relationships in a variety of ways, on many levels.

The vibrational energy frequency of this magnificent gemstone is that of the Third Eye, clear, bright, intense, all seeing, all-knowing, piercing through cloudy shadows of dis-belief.

The color range is deep translucent red to a very deep almost red-black color. It is often given as a token of love and fidelity.

When placed on the Third Eye during meditation, it will cleanse negative energy, and with time enable you to see more clearly whether or not you are consciously aware of your Third Eye opening. It is more than possible for an Intuitive to access their inner sight regardless of their Third Eye being open. It is highly suggested, the Garnet be cleansed and charged in the sunlight before placing it on your Third Eye Chakra. You may choose to pass your stone through incense or over the flame of a red or white candle instead of placing it in the Sun's rays. Whichever method you choose, always take proper precautions when working with candles or incense.

*Angelic Realm Association: Archangel Jophiel whose name means "Beauty of God" seeing through eyes of love, enhancing all relationships especially those of the heart. Angel Israfil whose name means "The Burning One" is also associated with this gemstone, burning away imperfections, purifying the love between two people.

*Healing Properties: personal relationships, feelings of security, passion, creativity, regulate the metabolism, feelings of lack, healing fear of the unknown.

*Vibrational Frequency: intense, piercing, fiery purification.

*Spiritual Properties: Third Eye activation, compassion, dream recall

If you wish to recall a past life or incident in this life, Garnet may assist you in healing that which has come before, bringing you to where you are in this moment with compassion and love. Take heed before delving into the past; be sure you wish to re-visit an experience or situation. It may be best to allow a professional lead you through a regression.

Red Crystals and Gemstones - Healing Properties of Carnelian and Red Garnet

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Garnet As A Jewelry Gemstone

Garnet has a long and storied history dating back to before the Bronze Age. These stones have long been prized for their beauty and brilliance. These gemstones are used in creating jewelry and are used in industrial applications for polishing grinding. Industrial garnet can be commonly found in sandpapers and other abrasive materials. The color of these stones covers almost the entire spectrum of colors from deep reds to vibrant greens and yellows.

garnet engagement rings

Where Are Garnets Found?

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Garnet is found in a surprisingly wide area of the planet, though Montana, New York and Idaho are the only areas in the United States where garnet is mined and is of an industrial quality, though gem-quality star garnet can be found in Idaho. Some other areas of the world that provide gem-quality stones include China, areas of Africa, South America, northern Europe and Thailand.

History

The name garnet actually refers to a wide variety of gemstone species, with each species representing a different base color. Initially discovered in Scandinavia and areas of the Middle East, discovery these stones dates back to around 3100 B.C. The earliest use as a gemstone seems to date back to around 400 B.C. in areas of southern Europe.

Birthstone Information

Garnet is considered to represent the month of January and is most closely associated with the astrological birth sign of Aquarius. Its significance as a birthstone is said to date back to the time of Moses and is recognized as one of the twelve original birthstones and are said to represent the original twelve tribes of Israel.

New Age Beliefs, Uses and Powers Through The Ages

Like many mineral crystals, garnet is believed to impart healing qualities to the wearer and these beliefs date back to biblical times, through the medieval period times and into the New Age. Among other beliefs during medieval times, these beautiful stones were even rumored to protect the bearer from poisons and venoms. People in the New Age community believe that garnet has healing properties that benefit the physical and mental wellbeing of the bearer with the ability to purify the body and even cure or eliminate certain diseases.

Other Names Known By

Garnets come in very wide choice of colors and are categorized by color with reds such as pyrope and almandine, oranges like Spessartite, black as in melanite and greens and yellows like grossular, demantoid and topazolite.

Artificial Forms of Enhancement

There no known enhancements possible in naturally-occurring garnet.

Color

The color of this stone varies throughout the color spectrum with the exception of blue.

General Scientific Information

The chemical names vary by species X3Y2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as nesosilicates.

Almandine garnet Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Iron Aluminum Silicate.

Androdite garnet Ca3Fe2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Calcium Iron Silicate.

Grossular garnet Ca3Al2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Calcium Aluminum Silicate.

Pyrope garnet Mg3Al2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Magnesium Aluminum Silicate.

Spessartine Mn3Al2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Manganese Aluminum Silicate

Uvarovite garnet Ca3Cr2(SiO4)3 otherwise referred to as Calcium Chromium Silicate.

Hardness measures 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale - the Mohs scale measures the hardness of metals, minerals, gemstones and crystals on a scale of 1 to 10. For example the hardness properties of most quartz crystals fall around 7 on the scale, as does steel and titanium. Diamond is the hardest known substance on the Mohs scale coming in at a hard 10. To most consumers hardness generally reflects the stones able to resist scratches and cracks.

There is no cleavage found in garnet and breaks into irregularly shaped pieces with sharp edges.

The color of this stone is said to come from irons, magnesium and calcium.

The specific gravity is approximately 3.8.

The crystalline system is isometric.

Garnet As A Jewelry Gemstone

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January Birthstones - Garnet and Auld Lang Syn

January's birthstone is garnet, a stone with an inner fire that defies even the coldest winter days. And the month of January is filled with those. January is named for Janus, the two faced Roman God of beginnings, endings, gates and doors. This is because January pays tribute to the year just past and harbingers the journeys we'll make into the New Year.

garnet pendant

As we make those journeys, whether as trips or metaphorical resolutions, no more fitting birthstone could guide us than garnet. This is because ancient cultures like the Romans, Greeks, Egyptians and even Sumerians used garnet beaded jewelry as protective talismans for journeyers. The garnet appears in the bible as the fourth stone in Aaron's breastplate and Noah is said to have used a garnet lantern to guide his Ark at night.

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For those seeking garnet's sure guidance, garnet beaded jewelry is ideal. But garnet rings are particularly popular birthstone jewelry for January, because a ring represents the completion of the yearly cycle.

So what color should garnet connoisseurs wear?

Blood red garnet beaded jewelry stands out like a blooming rose against January snows; the gemstone's name itself derives from the pomegranate, a fruit with sparkling seeds that resemble garnet beads. Certainly, deep crimson is garnet's most popular and iconic shade.

But January's birthstone can be any shade, and garnet beaded jewelry can be found in a rainbow of hues. For a time, it was believed that garnets came in every color but blue, but the discovery of blue garnets in Madagascar in the 1990s put that idea to rest. Now, smoky blue garnet is amongst the most prized gems both for its rarity and its ability to change color in different light.

Unusually colored garnets each have their own names. For example, purple garnets are known as Rhodolite, mandarin orange garnets are called Spessartine, brown or black garnets are known as Andradite, and emerald green garnets go by the name of Tsavorith. This is to name only a few.

This wide variety of names for January's birthstone stems from the fact that garnet is not a single gemstone, but rather, a family of related stones. What all varieties of garnet share is a common formation and cubic crystalline structure. Garnets are uniformly brilliant, natural, and durable. Garnets are also amongst the hardest gemstones, rating between a 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, and garnet beaded jewelry is generally affordable, making an ideal birthstone.

In fact, there are no known enhancements for garnets, so it's difficult to fool a consumer with inferior quality garnet beaded jewelry. Perhaps it is this inviolable purity that turned garnet into a symbol for remembrance and faithful friendship. After all, historically, garnet has been a gift exchanged between good friends who are parting, to ensure that they meet again. January's birthstone is even said to rekindle old feelings.

Thus, in a month when we gather with family and sing of old acquaintances forgotten and never brought to mind, garnet birthstone jewelry stands as a tribute to January's two aspects-reminding us of the past and guiding us into the future.

January Birthstones - Garnet and Auld Lang Syn

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The Beauty of Bohemian Garnet Jewelry

The term "bohemian garnet" refers to a specific type of gemstone which is mined almost exclusively in the mountains of the former bohemian empire, now part of the Czech Republic. They are the "pyrope" garnet variety and have the deepest fiery red color of any in the garnet family. They also have superior clarity and high light refraction. These unique garnets have been mined in the region for over 600 years.

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The bohemian garnet is valued for its beauty and used extensively in jewelry. Historically people believed that garnets had curative and uplifting effects, which helped one to overcome sorrow and feel joy. It's said that emperor Rudolf II, ruler of the holy roman empire had many unique pieces in his collection. These gems became particularly well known when they adorned the dresses of Russian Tsarinas after the fall of napoleon in 1815.

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The appearance of the bohemian garnet that is popular today originated in the late 19th century, during the victorian age. Since then bohemian garnet jewelry has developed a set of distinctive characteristics. They are typically encrusted close-set stones which are often rose cut and may be combined with lager cabochons. Traditionally the emphasis is placed on the arrangement of the stones, with minimal metal showing in the jewelry pieces.

Bohemian garnet jewelry continues to gain popularity throughout the world. Since 1953 the art cooperative garnet, located in Turnov, Czech Republic, has been manufacturing bohemian jewelry. They employ more than 500 goldsmiths and stonecutters and are reportedly the only ones that still mine the gems. The hardness and durability of garnets in general make them appealing because they are well suited for everyday wear.

Vintage and newly crafted bohemian garnet jewelry can easily be found via on-line sources and in estate jewelry stores. It's easy to become enamored after purchasing the first piece and then become a devoted collector of these beautiful stones.

The Beauty of Bohemian Garnet Jewelry

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Garnet Gemstone Jewelry - January's Birthstone

Garnet gemstones have been treasured for thousands of years and they are considered to be one of the world's most ancient gems. Use of garnets as gemstones have been traced to Egyptian artisans in 3100 B.C. Garnets were named by the ancient Greeks who thought the stone resembled a pomegranate. Garnets have been used in bracelets and brooches since the latter part of the 19th century. They have also been used as abrasives for materials such as glass, metal, plastic, wood, and leather due to their sharp fracture.

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Garnet makes a popular gemstone for jewelry for several reasons. Garnets are a reasonably cost-effective gemstone. They are also known for their beauty. There are several different kinds of garnet that make up many different colors. The best known color for Garnet is reddish brown. Garnet can be found in every color except for blue. Garnet is January's birthstone and can be found in a wide variety of pieces of jewelry. They are a popular gemstone for Valentine's Day gifts and are beautiful when they are paired with diamonds.

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Their durability also make them a good choice for jewelry. Depending on the variety of the stone, they can rank between 6 and 7.5 on Mohs scale of hardness. They can be found in many different shapes and sizes. The gold are silver settings can complement the colors of garnet quite well. The violet red shades look beautiful in white gold, silver, or platinum while the reddish brown shades look best in yellow gold.

Garnet jewelry is relatively low maintenance as well. Garnet jewelry can be cleaned by soaking it warm soapy water and being gently scrubbed with a toothbrush. With proper care, garnet jewelry can last a lifetime.

Garnet Gemstone Jewelry - January's Birthstone

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Garnet - Stone of Growth, Protection and Healing

Garnet is a workhorse in the mineral family. It has been used since ancient times for healing and protection. It has many functions, some of them known, some of them long forgotten. When you work with this mineral on a regular basis, it carries you back to the origins of the planet, the family of humanity, and your own origins here on Earth. It takes you back to the beginning of your soul's journey, and at the same time back to the Now. It is in this depth that all the layers of your own incarnations become illuminated, many layers which make up the progress of your soul along its unique path.

garnet ring

There is a depth and richness to every person, a fertile soil where growth has happened, can happen, and is always happening. Garnet puts you in touch with this growth process and connects you to those things which may be beneficial for your growth in the present moment. The goal of life is to grow, all the while knowing that there is also perfection in this particular Now.

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The ancients knew to look deep within this stone for the information needed to grow and thrive. To work with garnet for this information:

Hold it in your receptive hand (usually the left) Gaze into a candle flame, or fire if you have one available Ask to be shown the way for your own growth If there is something keeping you stuck in one place, ask to be shown the origin of this pattern

The garnet and the fire will work together to allow you to see how to proceed. You may want to write down this information to work with it. Or, if you are shown something that needs to be released, use the fire for this purpose.
Garnet has also been worn for protection, and for its physical healing and energizing capacity. You can carry a small garnet for protection from negativity and even danger. It creates a kind of energy shield around your energy field which repels negativity in any form. It has remained a prominent stone throughout the years because of its ability to protect. In ancient times it was worn on actual battle shields to keep the wearer safe from injury.

Use this stone for deep healing on all levels - physical, emotional and spiritual. Physically it is a great energizer, strengthening health and well-being. It aids in regulating heart and circulatory system, and also works with skin inflammations. It can easily be found in jewelry and worn close to the body, where it can work its healing magic.

For grounding, good health, protection and deep soul work, garnet is the stone to have.

Garnet - Stone of Growth, Protection and Healing

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Garnet: The January Birthstone

For those who are born in the month of January, they should be familiar to their birthstone, which is garnet. It is a wonderful stone with great properties and a variety of uses. It is recognized as the birthstone for January and is used as a gem for jewelry, but it is also a material that is used in industrial processes.

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Garnet is a wonderful gemstone that comes in many different shapes and colors. But there is more to garnet than being a birthstone of January. Let's take a look at some of the facts about this wonderful gem.

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The Uses of Garnet

Garnet is considered to be one of the most, if not the most versatile gems in the world market today. The use of garnet can be traced back to the ancient times, particularly the Bronze Age, when it was primarily used as an abrasive and a gemstone. Today, industrial garnet is far more valued in aggregate terms than gem garnets. The production of garnet for industrial processes is at least 50 times bigger than the production of gemstone garnet.

The first documented use of garnet for industrial processes can be traced back in 1878, when Barton Mines Corp. manufactured it as a coating for sandpaper. Today, aside from being an abrasive, it is also used to cut steel in water jets under high pressure. States like Alaska, California, Arizona, Colorado, Montana and Idaho have wonderful sources of garnet.

Garnet is also used as an indicator for determining the stages of rock formation. It is used in the process of defining the metamorphic stages of rocks. It is also used to detect the formation of igneous rocks.

Pure garnet crystals are commonly used as gemstones for jewelries. Let's take a look at the different qualities of a garnet as a gemstone.

Garnet Gemstones

Garnet gemstones come in different colors and can change colors if they are placed against different kinds of light. The more popular colors of garnet gemstones are pink to purple red or brownish red. Actually, the colors of garnet gemstones cover the color spectrum pretty well. Some people would say that one can find any color of garnet except for blue. In reality, there has been documented evidence that there exists blue garnet. A blue garnet specimen was discovered in the last decade in Bekily, Madagascar.

Almandine and Pyrope are popularly known as the most common types of garnet, and perhaps the most affordable ones. Rhodolite is also a popular type and this is usually mined in places like India, Africa, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Another type of garnet is the Tsavorite, which is usually found in Kenya and Tanzania.

History had been witness to the different mystical powers that are associated with garnet. Modern legends would tell us that garnet stones are associated with night vision and success. In the tradition of the Hebrews, garnet is believed to be one of the twelve stones in the breastplate of Aaron. While in Christian tradition, garnet is associated with the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ and is therefore connected with the concept of salvation. It is also believed that in the story of Noah, he used a large piece of a red-colored garnet to be able to illuminate his ark during the great storm. The Quoran also refers to garnet as the light of the fourth heaven.

There are also beliefs that garnet can be used to ensure safety during trips. It is also believed that garnet can cure diseases and food poisoning.

Garnet is a gemstone that got its name from the Greek word "granatus" which literally means "grain." It refers to the likeness of the structure of the gem to a group of grains. It is also associated with the pomegranate fruit, which resembles the color of the most common garnets and whose seeds resemble the structure of the gemstone.

No matter what kind or what color of garnet we might prefer, one's thing for sure- that garnet stones are definitely versatile and beautiful. One doesn't need to use a microscope to be able to appreciate the beauty of garnet. The people who were born in January are very lucky to have garnet as their gemstone.

Garnet: The January Birthstone

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What Makes Garnet Jewelry Original?

Garnet jewelry is derived from certain precious stones of the same name that have been mined for decorative and industrial uses since time immemorial. The main characteristic of the stones and one that led to the coinage of the name 'garnet' is the reddish pigment that they possess upon their production. This physical feature is often transferred to the items of adornment that are made from this raw material. These include necklaces with pendants, earrings, brooches and rings among other beautiful pieces.

garnet earrings

One of the features that make garnet jewelry original is the texture. Unlike many other precious stones, they make rings that are smooth and have a floral quality on the surface. This is further emphasized by the many pendants that are made in the form of a heart and attached to the base of a necklace. This gives the wearer a substantial presence. Though they are never very large, the reddish heart always makes them conspicuous and easy to hold attention. This is because of the soft curves that form a basic part of the pieces.

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Unlike many metallic devices, the pieces enjoy versatility of use. For example, they form a beautiful part of cuff bracelets that are embedded into a clothing to form a thick appearance to the arm where the piece is worn. They can be used either in their pure form or with combination with dissimilar materials like fabrics to give a great combination.

In this respect, it is easy to sample some of the original uses of garnet jewelry. Due to its crystalline quality, it is used to make hair fasteners. The best choice for these is usually one of the brighter and harmonious hues like silver and for the more daring spirit, the classic reddish pigment. The color scheme is also determined by the color of hair of the wearer. It can also be employed as a captivating brooch as well as the compact earring that is set to the ear as one piece.

Garnet jewelry is foremost a crystal that can be cut to reflect light when used in different settings. The pieces can be hung whole from necklaces, to give the illusion of light falling on the chest. Similarly, they can be used to separate beads and give them different contrasts.

Many of these are also made in the design of sumptuous produce of nature like fruits. This practice is partly rooted in tradition, which associated the precious stone as a love potion especially when made in the form of natural things.

Characteristics to this are animal representations in pendants. Also, others utilize popular religious symbols like the cross, which form the pendant.

Garnet jewelry is available in the market today in a range of designs and shapes. Some of these are the traditional, curved and soft types with the reddish pigment that has defined the pieces for ages. Others perpetuate the versatility of the stone by coming up with the most intriguing designs. All in all this piece of adornment is primarily handmade by professional craftsmen.

What Makes Garnet Jewelry Original?

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Tips on Buying Garnet Earrings

Choosing the most beautiful garnet earrings is not an easy task. First, you must find garnet earrings that appeal to you. You will have to narrow down your selection, and there are other things you will want to consider as you examine earrings with garnet stones in them. Here are some tips on finding the most beautiful garnet ear accessories.

garnet earrings

When you are shopping for garnet earrings, the first thing you will want to look at is the quality of the garnet stone. When examining the stone in the earrings, look at the color of the stones. Just because the stone is not red doesn't mean you aren't looking at a genuine garnet; some garnets are yellow, orange, and rare garnets are blue too. You will want to become familiar with how a stone looks, its color intensity, and the stone's translucent nature. Doing some research will help you identify what to look for in garnet earrings.

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You will also want to take a very close look at the garnet's interior as well. Inside a garnet stone one may note one or more flaws inside the garnet stone. These flaws are commonly called inclusions. While inclusions may not necessarily hinder the loveliness of the stone you are examining, it will diminish how much the stone is worth. You will need to decide if you are willing to live with inclusions or if you want to pay more for pricier stones that have fewer inclusions in their interior.

Garnet earrings, just like garnet rings, are offered with different stone cuts. You can find heart shaped garnets, princess cut garnets, emerald cut garnets and other cuts. You will need to decide what kind of cut appeals to you the most. You will also need to determine what size garnet you desire.

You will also want to examine the quality of the metal used for the garnet earrings you want to buy. Are the earrings made of real, solid gold, or are they gold plated? Are the earrings made of genuine silver or are the earrings silver-plated? If the earrings are not made of silver or gold, what kind of metal are they made of, and how can you properly care for the metal? You will need to ask these questions of the jeweler if you are going to ensure that you are buying quality earrings and that you can properly care for them when you bring them home.

Tips on Buying Garnet Earrings

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The Colorful Semi-Precious Stone - Garnet

The term for the semi-precious stone garnet comes from the Latin word 'Granatum' which means pomegranate. This is because the seeds and pulp of the fruit is actually similarly colored to garnet. Garnet crystals are also similar to the shape and size of pomegranates.

garnet necklace

Garnet is actually a group of minerals which have been used by many ever since the Bronze Age as abrasives and as gemstones. They most often come in red; however, they are available in a lot of colors that could span the entire spectrum.

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The six most common garnet species are essentially recognized on the basis of their chemical composition. These species are almandine, pyrope, spessartite, grossular (which includes tsavorite and hessonite or cinnamon-stone), andradite and uvarovite. They are comprised of two solid solution series. The first one being uvarovite-grossular-andradite and the second one pyrope-almandine-spessarite.

Garnets are found in most colors which includes red, yellow, orange, green, purple, brown, blue, black, pink and even colorless. The most rare one would be the blue garnet, which was discovered in Bekily, Madagascar during the late 1990s. It could also be mined in several areas in the United States, Turkey and Russia. This garnet can change its color from blue-green during the day into purple when under incandescent light. This effect is basically a result of having relatively high amount of vanadium. Some other kinds of garnets which have the ability of changing color do exist as well.

Garnet is the birthstone of those individuals who have been born in the month of January. Some of its holistic benefits include its power to regenerate the bloodstream, give assistance for accepting love and provide courage. It is also believed to be a creativity stimulant.

The Colorful Semi-Precious Stone - Garnet

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Availing of Garnet Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are jewelries that could never be forgotten. Well, to make them really unforgettable, you have to choose the right and absolutely beautiful that are worthy to be kept for a lifetime. Nowadays, a selection of a diamond engagement ring is in the mind of most couples. Knowing that a diamond means forever, it is also a hard kind of element that is best suited for any kind of rings especially for the wedding and engagement rings. But if you want some other gemstones other than the diamond, there are always items that are available in the market. They may not be as expensive as that of the diamond but they have beauty that could make your engagement rings perfect. One alternative for your engagement rings is a garnet. This could add uniqueness and striking effect to your ring.

garnett shoes

When we say garnet, it is an excellent and beautiful gemstone that has a deep and vibrant color. When it is set with a light toned precious metal band like white gold, platinum or silver, it will really look particularly amazing. Garnets species are found in many colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, brown, black, pink and colorless. The rarest of these is the blue garnet, discovered in the late 1990s in Bekily, Madagascar. In daylight, their color ranges from shades of green, beige, brown, gray, and blue, but in incandescent light, they appear a reddish. Due to their elegant hues and dazzling aesthetic, garnet engagement rings are items that will always be appreciated and adored by the wearer.

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Garnet rings do not only focus on the elegant and precious gemstone. The majority of these rings that includes diamonds which accentuate and at the same time, provide an additional value. The contrast between the brilliant shimmer of colorless diamonds and the deep hues of a flawless garnet makes for one piece of jewelry that looks uniquely resplendent.

Wearing of engagement rings will bring praises and appreciations from your friends. It will also give you enjoyment and happiness while staring on it. Diamond rings, as what is emphasized above, are absolutely common and people hardly give them a second glance. Because of this, garnet becomes so valuable. Since that engagement rings are not that common, they never fail to impress people with their beauty and elegance.

One of the advantages on choosing a garnet for your engagement rings is its price. We all know that a diamond may cost an arm and a leg. So being a practical buyer, you could really save a lot on choosing the garnet ring. Because of this, you can stretch and delegate some of your budgets to your other expenses like preparations for church wedding and at the same time for your reception. You can also acquire a flawless garnet that is exceptionally clear, well cut, large and has an elegant color.
Basically, you have a lot of reasons on choosing a garnet ring. Availing this beautiful and elegant ring will never cost you that much.

Availing of Garnet Engagement Rings

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Crystal Birthstone For January - Garnet

For all those born in the month of January, your Birthstone is Garnet.

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Garnet is very common and plentiful stone and can be found in many areas around the world. It has a trigonal crystal structure, and there are different forms according to its mineral base; Almandine, Andradite, Demantoid, Grossular, Hessonite, Pyrope, Rhodalite, Spessatite, Tsavorite and Uvarovite. A common misconception is that all Garnets are a red, when actually they come in a wide variety of colours including purple, red, orange, yellow, green, brown and black.

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Garnet has been widely known for thousands of years, and it has long been known as The Warriors Stone, carried by soldiers the world over as a talisman against death and injury, but it was also said to bring victory, peace and tranquility. Many courageous travellers and explorers wore Garnets for protection, as they were considered popular talismans and protective stones.

It is said that Garnet not only holds the power to protect its wearer from negative energies, but to send those negative energies back to where they originated from. Garnet has been used as adornment for thousands of years and is one of the stones in the breastplate of the high priest.

Garnet is also a stone of romantic love and passion and commitment. Metaphysically it is used to enhance sensuality, sexuality and intimacy. It balances the sex drive and alleviates emotional disharmony. Red Garnet in particular stimulates the controlled rise of the Kundalini and aids sexual potency.

An excellent stone for manifestation and it can assist mystically with building your self-confidence as well as success in your chosen profession. The Garnet is commonly known as the stone for successful business, and is useful in the planning stage of any project.

A Garnet placed under your pillow is said to prevent bad dreams. Wearing Garnet jewellery will help generate popularity amongst your peers, and help alleviate depression. It will also bring constancy to friendships. Garnet has a strong link with the pituitary gland and can stimulate expanded awareness and past life recall. It will sharpen your perceptions of yourself and others. Garnet helps you let go of old, useless, or obsolete ideas. Will remove inhibitions and taboos and will open the heart and bestow self confidence.

Garnet regenerates the body and treats spinal and cellular disorders. It stimulates the metabolism, purifies and regenerates the blood, heart and lungs, and regenerates DNA. It assists assimilation of vitamins and minerals. It clears negative chakra energy. Both the thyroid and spleen may benefit from cleansing and purifying with Garnet.

Crystal Birthstone For January - Garnet

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Beautiful and Affordable Garnet Rings

There is a saying that a smitten young man should spend a month's salary on an engagement ring for his prospective fiancé; a story concocted by a very cunning jeweler no doubt! However these days, especially because of the recession, we have all had to make certain cut backs; sayings like these are at the very least impractical and should be taken with a pinch of salt. Instead of spending a fortune on an enormous diamond when you cannot afford to, a young man in love should be thinking long term and looking for an equally desirable, yet affordable alternative. This alternative can be found in the stunning beauty of garnet rings.

garnett shoes

Garnet is a silicate mineral with a crystalline structure similar to a diamond but it also has a deep, luscious red color that would perfectly symbolize the passionate feelings a young man has for the object of his affection. Lest we forget that is what the whole giving of an engagement or any other ring is all about; symbolism of something so much more important than material goods. Your beloved is not interested in the ring itself as much as she is interested in the fact that you love her and quite simply want her as your wife.

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Now even if you want to spend a great deal of money and can afford to, garnet based jewelry settings come in all shapes, sizes and materials used from silver to regular or white gold, and platinum. The settings can range from 1.4 to 2.7 karats and thus their price range varies from less than 0 to well over 0. All these jewelry settings still have that deep, clear, luscious and passionate red stone at their center that will most certainly make her very generous with her affections and deliver her heart right into your hands. Now if that is not a great deal, then what is?

Speaking of hearts, a garnet can also be quite nicely shaped in a great variety of forms including that of a heart or oval shape. The gems can, in addition, be cut into square and emerald cut shapes which if put in a properly robust 2.7 karat setting can be a wonderful gift for a lady to give to a man. So thus it can be concluded that garnet rings are a superb gem for either a man or woman for their affordability, variety of styles and exquisite beauty. The stunning and passionately deep red color of the gem will easily turn heads and win hearts wherever it is spotted.

Beautiful and Affordable Garnet Rings

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Garnet - The Light of Noah

The use of garnet, the birthstone for January, has been documented as far back as the Ancient Egyptians. They not only made talismans and jewelry from the stone, but buried it with their dead for protection and illumination on their journey after life. In the bible, Noah is said to have used garnet to guide his path and give light inside the ark.

garnet necklace

Garnet is most often associated with the color red, but it is actually a gem that can occur in orange, yellow, purple, brown, black, pink and colorless. These other colors have specific names, but all of them are of the same family. The stone was thought to not occur in the color of blue, but in the 1990's a blue garnet was discovered in Madagascar. These blue garnets are very rare and the most expensive of all garnets. The name of the gemstone comes from the Latin granatum which means seed or grain, specifically the seed of the pomegranate which is also red in color. Garnet was occasionally mistaken for ruby throughout history, because of the similarity in appearance and the characteristic of some garnets to change colors when viewed in different light.

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The ancient attributes for garnet include giving of strength, healing, relief for skin inflammation, regulating blood flow and curing depression. The stones were also in ancient times given as gifts. When friends exchanged garnets, it demonstrated their affection for one another.

The stone is primarily used in jewelry in modern times, but its hardness has also given it use in industrial applications. Although much more expensive than sand, garnet is sometimes used to blast clean items as it is much more efficient than sand. It can also be recovered and recycled in this process.

Garnet is found in many areas of the world, with some areas better known for colors of the stone besides red. Garnet is found in The United States in Idaho, New Mexico, Utah and Arkansas, in Russia, Africa Sri Lanka, Europe and South America.

Garnet - The Light of Noah

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