| GARNET - (deep rosy-red, pink or purple) Garnet is the name of a group of different colored minerals with similar compositions, silicate of magnesium, iron, and aluminum, belonging to the garnet family. It is more correctly a group of minerals consisting of mixtures in variable proportions of the two end-members. Mixtures in which magnesium clearly predominates over iron are called pyrope; those in which iron predominates are called almandine. The name garnet, which is derived form the Latin word “granatum” meaning pomegranate, because of the crystal’s red color and seed-like shape. Now applied to the entire family, was originally given to the garnets of the pyrope-almandine series, due to their resemblance to red pomegranate seeds (Latin name, malum granatum). Usually in isolated, granular crystals, often in the form of a perfect rhombic dodecahedron. The color often reddish-brown, but can be a definite red, light red, violet red, or deep blackish red. The crystals, which are often semi-opaque, can be transparent and limpid, with highly lustrous faces. They have no cleavage. Pyrope is normally found in peridotitic and eclogitic rocks and also in diamond-bearing kimberlite. Almandine is a characteristic mineral of metamorphic rocks. Due to their resistance to weathering, pyrope and almandine are often found in alluvial, secondary deposits or are nacreous rocks. During the Middle Ages garnet was regarded as the gem of faith, truth, and constancy. Findings of garnet beads and inlaid work indicate widespread use of this gem in Egypt as far back as 3100 B.C. Today the chief use of garnet is still gemstones and jewelry making. On the Moh's scale garnets are between 7.0 and 7.5. This mineral is very wide spread. Countries famous for garnets usable as gems include Czechoslovakia (Bohemia), South Africa, Madagascar, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, Burma, Sri Lanka, and India. Garnets are said to help with sexuality, assists in taking action, “stone of commitment”, stimulates kundalini, and provides energy. Garnets are very grounding, evokes stirs up from depths than soothes and integrates. Keeps energies flowing and will increase creative energies. Brings circulation to normal, clotting of the blood, purifies. Balance awareness and well being, prevents fears and insecurity, draws or negativity. Balances thyroid disorders, increases sex drive. Good for use at second chakra. GARNET Charm Creativity Tonic, Anemia, Infections, Insomnia Used by travelers as an amulet, particularly for night travel. A stimulus to painting, sculpture, writing and other creative work. It is also worn to attract lovers. Garnet Trivia Jewelry from Egypt dating back as far as 3100 B.C. contained garnet stones. It was believed garnet would protect it's wearer from enemies and could illuminate the darkness. Noah reportedly used a garnet lantern to illuminate the ark and guide it safely trough the darkness of night. According to legend, East Indians rubbed garnet on themselves to obtain glowing qualities. Garnet is said to symbolize happiness and deep, enduring friendship and to spark creativity. Garnet is believed to rid the body of negative energy and emotions. It is thought to stimulate the desire for fortitude that it takes to connect to decisions. Native American tribes believed garnet had medicinal powers. They also used garnet in jewelry and to decorate shields, dream catchers, and many other items. |