Gem name: garnet jewelry

Discover Garnet Jewelry, a Modern Trend with Ancient Roots

Popular since the bronze age, the oldest known garnet necklace dates back at least five thousand years to the Nile Delta. Many other pieces have been found all over the world, representing many different cultures.

Garnets make up an entire family of brilliant silicate gemstones, with at least ten different varieties formed under the same extremely high pressure and temperature. Virtually all have a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them durable and relatively easy to work with. The name probably comes from the Latin "granum" (grain) or the Middle English "gernet" (dark red), both referring to the mineral's resemblance to the seeds of a pomegranate.

That same deep red is the most widely known color of garnet, but many shades of red, orange, yellow, brown, violet, pink, green and even black abound. Although no truly blue garnets are available, one rare variety changes from blue-green in natural light to purple under artificial light. Naturally all these colors have inspired even more names, so it is more important when choosing jewelry to find a pleasing design and color than to worry about which type of garnet it features.

An incredible variety of jewelry boasts garnets in every size and cut imaginable. The gems may be left rough in nuggets or chips, shaped and polished into beads or, most commonly, cut in any of the traditional gemstone shapes from classic round to heart or marquis. Vintage or modern, simple or elaborate, a huge selection of rings, necklaces, bracelets and brooches features garnets alone or combined with other gems. Companies ranging from Blue Nile to Macy's and K-Mart offer jewelry with garnets. Settings include both white and yellow gold and sterling silver, and extend from affordable to exclusive. While garnets tend to add plenty of drama and color on their own, some pieces contrast them with black onyx or pearls for extra flair.

In addition to their beauty, traditions about garnets abound because they have been part of so many cultures for so much of human history. Modern birthstone schemes often feature this gem for January and suggest it for a 2nd wedding anniversary gift. Travelers used to carry them along as protection from evil, and they are considered to promote business success. Many believe that this stone provides numerous physical and mental health benefits when worn next to the body, ranging from inspiring imagination and curing depression to relieving arthritis and overcoming a fever.

Proper care ensures that the beauty and benefits of garnet jewelry continue for many years. Because garnets can be scratched, use only a soft dry cloth or clean with warm water and a little mild soap, gently stroking with a soft brush and rinsing well. Ultrasonic cleaning is fine except for the specially soft demantoid (green) variety, but do not steam clean. Avoid risking especially hot or cold temperatures by never leaving the jewelry in a closed vehicle. Be sure to remove the pieces before swimming or using household cleaners, as harsh chemicals and sunlight can damage jewelry with garnets.

Modern garnet jewelry in all its colors, shapes and styles continues a five thousand-year old tradition of enjoying this sparkling gemstone for the benefits and beauty it brings.