Facts
SPECIES/GROUP : Garnet
CLASSIFICATION : Gemstone
Origin
Garnet is compromised of a group of minerals with an identical structure, not one single element. Garnet minerals are mixable to the extent that stones consisting of only one pure garnet mineral are rare. Primary sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the US and Tanzania.
Name
The name is derived from the Latin word ‘granatum’ (pomegranate). Garnet crystals were said to resemble the red seeds of the fruit. When used alone, the word garnet normally refers to a red garnet.
PROCESSING
Cutting and polishing only.
APPEARANCE
Garnets are most commonly red and garnets may be any colour other than blue. Pandora uses predominantly red (garnet) to red-purple (rhodolite) variations.
Care
Avoid rough handling and when not being worn, store items of jewellery separately to avoid scratches. Clean with warm, soapy water and gentle brushing. Ultrasonic cleaners should only be used with caution. Do not expose garnets to sudden changes in temperature.
Durability
Garnet has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale and fair to good toughness. This makes it relatively durable, although it is prone to damage caused by thermal shock.