Origin
Garnets form in metamorphic and igneous rocks, where shifting pressures and temperatures create perfect crystals. They are widespread, making up around 12% of the Earth’s crust.
The most famous deposits include Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Russia, and Brazil.
Each source gives unique tones: the deep reds of African pyropes, the vivid orange of spessartites, the brilliant greens of tsavorites. Stones that carry the power of their native land.
History
“Carbunculus in igne lucet.” (Garnet glows like a burning coal.) – Pliny the Elder, Naturalis Historia
Since ancient times, Garnets have been worn as protective amulets and symbols of vitality. In Egypt they were set in royal jewels, while the Romans engraved them as seals.
In the Middle Ages they were talismans against evil; in the Victorian era they returned in fashion among the aristocracy. Rare varieties, like Russian Demantoids, were once reserved exclusively for imperial courts.
Today Garnet remains a family of Gems valued for their meaning and timeless elegance.
Technical characteristics
Garnet has a hardness between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable but softer than Corundum and Diamond.
Its distinctive feature is optical dispersion — the ability to split light into countless flashes of color.
In Demantoids this effect is particularly striking, reminiscent of a Diamond’s brilliance.
Loved for its saturated colors and strong character, Garnet is perfect for those who seek authenticity and personality in a Jewel.
Variety
The Garnet family is very large. Among the best known and most appreciated varieties:
- Rhodolite: a mix of pyrope and almandine, raspberry or violet-pink, elegant and versatile.
- Demantoid: deep green with exceptional fire, among the rarest, beloved by the Russian Tsars.
- Spessartite (Mandarin): bright orange, striking and impactful.
- Tsavorite: brilliant green grossular, often compared to emerald.
- Pyrope & Almandine: deep reds, iconic classics of jewelry.
Each Garnet has a distinct identity, but all share the same vital, warm energy that makes them timeless.