Garnet, the fiery gemstone of passion
Garnet is a mineral that has been winning the hearts of many people for many years. At first glance, it catches the eye with its deep red colour. It is the typical red that makes garnet jewellery popular but also very original. And although garnets come in a variety of colours, it is the red one that people associate with love, strength and inner energy - and fall in love with easily. Come and find out more about this beautiful gemstone. You may find it just as enchanting as many before you. A garnet is not just one stone, but a whole group of minerals that share common properties and a similar crystal structure. Its name comes from the Latin word granatum (eng. pomegranate), precisely because of the similarity of the shape of garnet crystals to the tiny seeds of a pomegranate. People most often associate it with a deep red colour, although garnets can also be found in shades of orange, green or purple. But all garnets have one thing in common - high hardness and a beautiful luster that makes them ideal for use in jewelry. Due to its durability, garnet jewellery will last beautifully even when worn everyday, making garnet a popular stone worldwide. The most common garnet you will see in jewelry is red garnet, which is called pyrope. The name “pyrope” comes from the Greek word pyropos, meaning “fiery” or “fiery-looking”, which perfectly describes its distinctive deep red colour. It is pyrope, the typical red garnet, which gives jewellery not only beauty but also deep symbolism.
What is a garnet?
|
|
|
|
History and origin of garnet
Garnet is one of the gems that have been known since ancient times. It was used, for example, by the Egyptians, who set it in jewellery and amulets. However, its intense colour and durability have made it popular in many cultures throughout history.
The most important source of red pyrope, which is the most commonly used type of garnet in jewellery, are found mainly in Africa (for example in Tanzania and Namibia) and in India. European sources are also known, for example in Hungary and Slovakia. While our collection doesn't include the famous Czech garnet from the Bohemian Paradise and Jizera Mountains, a true national treasure, we do offer other premium varieties of garnets with exceptional colour and brilliance.
Symbolism of the red garnet
The red garnet is often called the stone of passion, strength and protection. Its deep red colour symbolises love, courage and vitality, which is why it is traditionally associated with boosting life energy. The gemstone is said to help its wearers find inner strength, boost confidence and is said to bring peace to relationships – perhaps this is why a garnet ring is often used for engagements.
Garnet is also traditionally associated with the month of January, specifically with the signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. For people born during this period, garnet can bring good luck, protection and harmony. However, you'll have to find out for yourself if they have as significant a power as the story goes.
In ancient Egypt, the garnet was thought to be the blood of the goddess Isis and symbolized the eternal cycle of life, death and rebirth. In Norse legends, it is said that garnet jewels were buried with the dead to light the way to the next world. Some stories also say that garnet jewels shine as brightly at night as the sun did during the day, helping sailors find port safely.
|
|
|
|
How to care for red garnet jewellery?
Garnet is a fairly durable stone due to its hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, but it still requires proper care. In order to preserve its brilliance and beauty, it is best to clean the jewellery with mild soapy water. Afterwards, rinse it thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth. And as always, avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the stone and the precious metal. Try to take care of your jewellery regularly in the comfort of your own home and treat it to professional care once in a while. You'll see that they'll look as good as new years later.
TIP MIALIS: Don't forget, at Mialis you get a free professional cleaning once a year. So take advantage of it to keep your designer jewellery looking beautiful.
How to wear red garnet jewellery?
Garnet jewellery is elegant yet striking, making it ideal to use as the main element of an outfit. Are you going to wear little black dresses to a party? Choose a brushed bun and garnet earrings that will subtly draw lots of attention to you. For work or a casual day out, reach for a garnet ring. Thanks to the pear shape of the gemstone, it will visually lengthen your fingers, be unmissable on your hand, but won't disrupt your overall look.
A red garnet goes well with neutral colours of clothing – such as beige or off-white, but bold ladies don't have to be afraid of bold combinations, for example with dark green or blue shades. The important thing is to feel good!
TIP MIALIS: You can also choose rose, yellow or white gold at no extra cost. Let the jewellery match your skin tone and your unique style.
Choose the gold jewellery that will enchant you
Every woman will simply fall in love with red garnet. So whether you're looking for gift ideas or planning to get a garnet engagement ring, you won't go wrong with this gemstone. Make an appointment at the Mialis studio, come and take a look, and discover the magic of original jewellery in person. If you are far from us, you can choose from the comfort of your home – you can find the entire collection online on our website. We will be happy to help you with your selection, either in person or remotely (775 462 707, info@mialis.cz) - so that you can find the right piece of jewellery that will win the heart of the person you are gifting (or yours)!
