garnet

GARNET

I have hundreds of them (207)!!

garnetrough.jpg - 13229 Bytes
Alaskan pyrope garnet in matrix (mica schist)

Garnets as a group are relatively common in highly metamorphosed rocks and in some igneous formations. They form under the high temperatures and/or pressures that those types of rocks must endure. Garnets can be used by geologists as a gauge of how much temperature and pressure the rock has endured. As a gemstone, garnets have had a mixed reputation. Garnets do possess high indices of refraction, are hard enough, have pretty colors, are sometimes transparent, lack cleavage and are durable; thus making good candidates for gemstones. However, many people consider garnets to be inferior to other colored gems. This may be due to garnet's relative abundance and widespread use, and therefore a (typically) low price. Garnets are greatly variable in colors and varieties, though, and many of these are both rare and beautiful, producing genuinely precious gemstones. Some garnets are truly unique in the mineral kingdom and have much to offer as both gemstones and mineral specimens.

this hunka-chunka burning love is cordierite (iolite) encrusted with garnets on all sides - from Sädermanland, Sweden - though you have to use your imagination to be able to spot them in this crummy photo!

bad photo, but beautiful spessartine garnet in matrix from Ely, Nevada

Hardness: 6 1/2 - 7 1/2. Other characteristics.

The stone of health and contentment. Extracts negative energy and transmutes it to a beneficial state. Aids in sleep and dreaming and is very calming. Balances and stimulates the kundalini (?!?) and adjusts the body's flow of energy. Strengthens the heart, liver, kidneys, and thyroid. Works to strengthen blood. The garnet is most often used as a general tonic for the whole system- physical, mental and emotional. It is regenerative and revitalizing, strengthening the blood and helping with anaemia and circulatory problems. Protects against infection, depression and skin diseases. It brings into consciousness the physical powers and is particularly recommended for those who need to improve their self-respect and self-confidence, pride and success and to increase their courage when dealing with changes. Improves imagination. Assists in dreamwork and in past-life recall. Increases determination, energy and courage. Attracts love, promotes bonding.