“By her who in this month (January) is born
No gem save garnets should be worn;
They will ensure her constancy,
True friendship, and fidelity.”

Garnet comes from the Latin word “granatus” which means grain. Garnet deposits are small grains of red crystals, hence the name.  They are the most sought after gemstones and the term garnet refers to 10 different gemstones with similar chemical compositions.

There are six main garnet types used for gemstones such as almandine garnets which are the most commonly used ones.  The differences between the members of the garnet group lead to variations in colour, density and index of refraction.

Actress Kate Beckinsale wearing a stunning pair of garnet earrings

Salvador Dali’s famous ‘beating’ Royal Heart which contains garnet

Garnets exist in a variety of colours; red, purple, brown, green, orange, yellow, colourless and even black.  It is impossible to have blue garnet.  There’s a common misconception that all garnets are red. Indeed this is perhaps the most familiar shade and why garnets are often confused with rubies.

In the past, garnets were considered as popular talismans and protective stones.  The crusaders used to decorate their armour with garnets to prevent them harm.  Garnets are supposed to give peace to their owners, to enhance cleverness and increase pride.  The stone of love and devotion, garnets make an excellent choice in engagement or eternity rings.