Garnet: January Birthstone Quick Facts
Garnet Color: Most common in dark red hues but available in a variety of other colors
Garnet Mohs Hardness Scale Rating: 6.5-7.5
Garnet Symbolism & Meaning: Good health, wealth and happiness
Garnet Zodiac Signs: Capricorn and Aquarius
Other Recognitions: Gemstone for 2nd wedding anniversary
What Is Garnet?
Garnets are a group of silicate minerals and are found in igneous and metamorphic rock all over the world. They come in a variety of colors, with deep, rich red garnets being the most common. The garnet family is one of the most complex in the gem world. It’s not a single species but instead consists of several species and varieties.
The name garnet derives from the Latin word for grain due to the similarity between their rounded crystals and a pomegranate’s seeds. Garnet is the official birthstone for January and signifies protection, friendship, trust, commitment and love. Garnet is also said to keep the wearer safe during travel.
Garnet Colors & Characteristics
While it’s most commonly known for its red color, there are actually many varieties and colors in the garnet family. The following is a list of the more common garnet gemstones and their colors:
- Almandite: the most common garnet, a red with a violet tint.
- Rhodolite: purplish-red or rose-colored garnet.
- Pyrope: from the Greek word for fiery, a deep red stone, often with a brown tint.
- Hessonite: brownish-red or cinnamon color.
- Spessartite: orange to reddish-brown; purer forms of this garnet are also referred to as mandarin garnet.
- Malaia: pinkish-orange, orange or reddish-orange.
- Tsavorite: green to bluish-green.
- Demantoid: green to bluish-green, the name means diamond-like luster.
- Lotus: discovered in late 2015, lotus garnet is a newer variety with a unique pinkish-orange to orangey-pink color. It is a mix of pyrope, spessartine and almandine garnet and is usually found with rhodolite garnet or spinel.
Where Is Garnet Found?
All garnets have similar crystal structures. Their varying colors come from traces of calcium, magnesium, iron and aluminum, depending on their location. They are found in Europe, Madagascar, India, Canada, South Africa, Australia and the US. Only a small percentage of mined garnets are gemstone quality; most are crushed and used in garnet paper and other abrasives. Generally, garnet is not treated to improve its color or clarity.
Garnet Value
Bright, clear colors and few inclusions will command higher prices in any garnet. The rarest and most valuable garnets are the tsavorite and the demantoid with green tones. Rhodolite in its red hues and spessartite in bright orange-red hues are also uncommon and considered valuable.
Garnet Care & Cleaning
When cleaning garnets, warm soapy water is recommended. An ultrasonic cleaner is usually safe but should be avoided when cleaning stones that have fractures. Steam cleaning is not recommended. If a garnet has been treated by fracture filling, only warm soapy water should be used for cleaning.
Garnets are a 6.5-7.5 on Moh’s Hardness Scale and have fair to good toughness, making them durable enough for all jewelry types. Garnets need to be treated with proper care and should not be subjected to hard blows or rough wear. When not worn, garnet jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft fabric.
FAQs
How to Tell If a Garnet Is Real
A real garnet has a rich, natural color, good clarity and a hardness that resists everyday scratching. The most reliable way to confirm a garnet is authentic is to have it tested by one of our expert jewelers.
How Much Is Garnet Worth?
Garnet prices vary widely based on the stone’s variety, color, size and quality. Common garnets may cost as little as $20–$500 per carat, while rare, high-quality garnets can be worth thousands of dollars per carat.
Is Garnet Expensive?
No, most garnets are considered affordable gemstones. They offer excellent beauty and durability at a lower price point than many popular gemstones, including ruby.
How to Tell a Ruby from a Garnet
Rubies are typically brighter, more vivid red and much more valuable, while garnets often display deeper red tones with brown or purple undertones. Rubies are also significantly harder than garnets, making them more durable for everyday wear.
Can Garnet Benefit My Overall Wellbeing?
Many cultures have long associated garnet with qualities such as energy, confidence and protection. While garnet is cherished for its beauty and symbolism, there is no scientific evidence that gemstones provide medical or health benefits.
Garnet is a popular gift option for those celebrating January birthdays and those commemorating their 2nd wedding anniversary.
