The word “garnet” comes from the 14th-century Middle English gernet, meaning “dark red.” It is derived from the Latin granatum, meaning “seed,” inspired by the gemstone’s resemblance to the bright red seeds of the pomegranate.

Garnet is not a single gemstone, but a group of minerals that occur in a wide variety of colours. While deep reds are the most recognised, garnets can also be green, orange, yellow, brown, and even colourless or blue. Some rare garnets are even colour-changing, appearing differently under various lighting. The most common garnet shades range from warm rust tones to rich violet-red, making them a striking choice for jewellery.

The History and Significance of Garnet

Garnet has been treasured for thousands of years for both its beauty and symbolic meaning. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection and strength, and travellers often carried garnets as talismans. The gemstone has also been associated with passion, energy, and confidence — qualities that resonate with the fresh possibilities of a new year.

Where Garnets Are Found

Garnets are sourced from around the globe, including locations such as Wyoming, the Czech Republic, Greece, Russia, Tanzania, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and India. Among them, Mandarin Spessartite Garnets — often called Mandarin garnets — are rare and highly prized for their vibrant orange hue.

Garnet in Jewellery

Thanks to its durability, ranking 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale, garnet is ideal for everyday wear. Its rich colour makes it a versatile gemstone for rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Deep red garnets are particularly striking in yellow or rose gold, while green tsavorites pair beautifully with white gold or platinum.

Caring for Garnet

To maintain its natural brilliance, garnet jewellery should be cleaned gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, especially with rare or colour-changing varieties.