Garnet

Garnet, derived from the Greek "granatum" referring to the color of the pomegranate seed, is available in a stunning array of colors and found all over the world. Red garnets called "carbuncles" were known since Egyptian times. Garnet is also reputed to be one of the original gems on the high priest Aaron's breastplate.

                                     VARIETIES, QUALITIES & ORIGINS

                                     The diverse garnet is available in the striking red Pyrope and Almadite; the orange colors of Hessonite and Spessarite;the lovely purple of Rhodolite;the pink to reddish-orange of Malaya; and the intense greens of the highly prized Demantoid and Tsavorite. Garnets are found in India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, Czechslovakia, Italy, Korea, Pakistan, the US, Sri Lanka, and throughout Africa.

                                     GEMSTONE ENHANCEMENTS

                                     As a group, the garnets owe their color and appearance to mother nature, and are not commonly enhanced 

                                     by any method.

                                     HARDNESS  (Scratch Resistance) 7-7/12 on the Moh's Scale

                                     STABILITY  (To Heat, Light, Chemicals) Avoid abrupt temperature change, hydrofluoric acid.

                                     REPAIR  Remove from setting for repairs involving intense heat

                                     TOUGHNESS  (Chip & Crack Resistance) Fair to good

                                     CLEANING  Ultrasonic cleaning is safe, never steam clean.

                                     OCCASIONS  January Birthstone, Aquarius

Swalstead Jewelers