The use of Garnets in jewellery dates back over 5,000 years, they are the birthstone for January and used as the anniversary gemstone for the 2nd year. The name Garnet comes from Middle English, borrowed and changed from French and Dutch words meaning “dark red” and also from pomegranate, because the red Garnet crystals look like the seeds of the fruit.
Garnet is a mineral group comprising many species and varieties. Whilst red Garnets are the most widely known and can be commonly found throughout the world, due to the wide range of species and varieties they can be found in many colours, some of which are much rarer and more valuable. Garnets range from a deep dark red, through brownish or purplish reds, but the less well-known Garnets occur in orange, yellow, green, purple, brown and even a colour change variety. Usually the colour of a Garnet is not zoned as it can be in other gemstones. The red and purplish Garnets used in jewellery are generally free from inclusions to the naked eye, but many orange and green varieties may have inclusions that can be seen without a loupe. The best quality Garnets are vivid colours, cut to allow light to play around the stone and show the colour to the best effect.
The effect of Garnet dispersing light is well known, and it is believed that Noah hung a slice of Garnet in the ark for this purpose, Garnet has also been used in slices in windows to splendid effect. There are many beliefs about the healing or protective powers of Garnets, they are often believed to remedy inflammation, and have a calming effect removing anger and discord.
Garnets used as gemstones generally do not occur in large sizes as some stones such as quartz and beryl do, but the different varieties all have slightly different properties. Prices in Garnet can range from a few pounds per carat for the more common red coloured varieties up to thousands of pounds per carat for the highest quality material in the rarer colours. Garnet in general is quite hard wearing, but it will eventually start to wear on facet edges or the dome of a cabochon, it is durable enough to be worn regularly, and with care can last a lifetime. It should be stored so it cannot be scratched by or scratch other items and cleaned with warm water with a little gentle detergent or soap.
Garnets are not commonly treated to improve or induce colour, or for clarity enhancement, other treatments, such as coating, dying or impregnation are rare in Garnet as well.
