Pyrope-Almandine Garnet

Gemstone: Pyrope-Almandine Garnet. The three most commonly known Pyrope-Almandine Garnets are Rhodilite Garnet, Grape Garnet and Mozambique Garnet. Birthstone Month: Garnet is the gemstone associated with the month of January. Zodiac: Garnet is associated with the zodiac sign Aquarius. Chemical Symbol: Pyrope: Mg3Al2(SiO4)3 Almandite: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 Chemical Make-up: Pyrope-Almandine Garnet has a chemical composition containing a mixture of both Pyrope and Almandite. Pyrope is a Magnesium Aluminum Silicate and Almandite is an Iron Aluminum Silicate. History & Lore: The name Garnet comes from the Latin word granatium which means “pomegranate”. Many believe that Garnet was likened to the the pomegranate because its coloration is similar to that of the seeds of the fruit. It is believed that Noah used a huge Garnet to illuminate the night to help steer his ark to safety. Garnets have also been used by many explorers and travelers as it is believed to protect the wearer when journeying far from home. Garnets have also been set in shields, armor, and buckles by crusaders for it is believed that it gives protection from wounds & stops bleeding. Many native tribes from North, Central, and South America wore Garnets to ward off evil influences and spirits. The Hunzas used Garnet bullets to fend off the British troops during their quarrel of 1982, believing that it was stronger and more deadly then lead.

Garnet is said to be the stone of romantic love and passion, enhancing sensuality, sexuality, and intimacy. It is said to awaken creativity, positive energy, and self-confidence, and can bring success to one's career or business. Garnets have been thought to treat infectious diseases, blood poisoning, and heart and lung diseases. It is also a protective stone which is effective for protection from evil and nightmares and one that can be used for spiritual healing. Whilst Garnet is primarily associated with the root chakra, it is also effective at opening other chakras, depending upon the color of the stone in question. Availability: Rhodolite Garnet is becoming increasingly rare because of both its popularity and the fact that current deposits are becoming exhausted. Prices for Rhodolite Garnets tend to be quite expensive when compared to other Garnet varieties. Grape Garnet is considered rare, yet prices remain quite modest. Mozambique Garnet is readily available and priced moderately. Sources: The most important deposits of Rhodolite Garnet can be found Sri Lanka, Tanzania, the United States, and Zimbabwe. The sole source of Mozambique Garnet is the East African Nation of Mozambique and the sole source of Grape Garnet is State of Orissa, on the bay of Bengal in Eastern India. Evaluation: Pyrope-Almandine Garnets are rated at 7 - 7.5 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness, making it durable and resistant to everyday wear and tear. The Garnet is a popular gemstone choice the world over because it is a natural, untreated gemstone that is generally affordable. Rhodolite Garnet has a chemical composition averaging a 2:1 mixture of Almandine and Pyrope. The derivation from the Greek 'rhodo', or “rose”, is reminiscent of its color range from a light rosy pink to a raspberry red. In addition to its color and rarity, Rhodolite Garnet often has a high refraction of light that allows exceptional brilliance and fire, which explains its popularity in the gem trade. The most desirable and sought-after Rhodolite Garnets are those that display a well-balanced raspberry red color. Clarity and carat weight are also both important factors when evaluating Rhodolite Garnet and lastly, it is very important to consider well-cut stones as this will ensure that the maximum amount of brilliance is displayed by the gem. Grape Garnets must meet a stringent criteria before being excepted as true Grape Garnets. The gems must display a consistent purple-red color, be free of all visible inclusions, and lastly be extremely well cut. By following this strict criteria, the true brilliance and fire of the gem can be exhibited as they have an unusually high refractive index - 1.79 or higher. Mozambique Garnet has a chemical composition averaging a 1:1 mixture of Pyrope and Almandine and is similar in color to Rhodolite Garnet, but exhibits a slightly darker red color. In addition to it's dark red color, Mozambique Garnet can also be found in hues of orange-red and a purple-red. Eye-clean Mozambique Garnet gemstones with strong color saturation and at larger sizes are at the pinnacle of the value spectrum. Common Cuts: Pyrope-Almandine Garnets are usually cut into the shape / cut that will show the least amount of color darkness. The shapes most effective for doing this are Cabochons, Cushion, Oval and Round. Routine Enhancements: There are no known treatments for Pyrope-Almandine Garnet. Care & Cleaning: A Garnet can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. An ultrasonic cleaner is safe for most Garnets but not for all, so should be used with caution. Garnet should be kept away from chemicals that will cause it to erode such as hydrofluoric acid. Garnet should also be kept away from drastic temperature changes as this may cause fracturing. Always store your Pyrope-Almandine Garnet jewelry in a fabric-lined box, away from other jewelry in order to avoid scratching / damage.