Read all about Garnet and different kinds of rocks and minerals here at the Stone Goddess.

Garnet is the name given to a group of Aluminum Silicates with related chemical content and identical crystal structure. Most are found in metamorphic rocks. Pyrope or Bohemian Garnet, and Almandine Garnet are the most widely known and used in jewelry. The "Carbuncle" of medieval times and the Crusades was Almandine Garnet. Warriors to protect against injury in battle and to bring good luck and fortune wore it. It also symbolized the heart and enduring love and friendship. Garnet jewelry was worn as early as the 6th century by the Scythians, and Pliny first called the stone Carbuncle. In 16th century Bohemia, it was worn against witch’s spells. It was believed to protect the wearer from enemies and thieves, and to bring love.
Pyrope derives its name from the Greek Pyropos for 'Fiery eyed". It was very popular in Victorian times until it became too common. Now these pieces are highly desirable estate jewelry. Rhodonite, another gem garnet, was first found in Macon County, NorthCarolina in 1893. A beautiful rose hue, it is now found in Ceylon and other areas. In New York City, in 1893 a garnet crystal of over 9lbs. Was found in an excavation right Off-Broadway!

Early Romans carved cameos and intaglios of Garnet. A lion carved on garnet could preserve health, wealth and honor. Albertus Magnus said garnet improves blood circulation and strengthens the heart, stops heart palpitations and strengthens blood flow. It could also avert the plague and thunderstorms! The name "granatum", from Pomegranite, shows that the red jewel has long been a symbol of ancient feminine life force and the womb.

Garnet occurs in every color except blue. Andradite, Grossulars and Uvarovite are some of the other hued garnets, brown, yellow, green and colorless. Common garnet is used in industry as an abrasive. Large Spessartine garnets have come from the Rutherford Mine in Amelia, Virginia.

Metaphysical Properties: Garnet is a birthstone for January. It is a stone of passion and of transformation. It helps in release of old patterns and gives courage to begin anew. It stimulates and helps the flow of Kundalini and of sexual energy. It also helps control anger. A stone for purity of heart, it is symbolic of love and loyalty. It aids in childbirth and with menstrual problems, and has long been associated with the blood. An energizer and revitalizes, healing and protective, good for strength and knowledge of what is needed for survival.

Chakras: Root and Heart