Garnet Origins and History
As with most beautiful gemstones, Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt coveted garnets for their own jewelry and adornments. Carved Garnets were also used in Rome as signet rings to seal important letters and documents with wax. Clergy and nobility of the Middle Ages preferred Garnet to boast their high station.
Many ancient cultures had ideas about how Garnet could help those that wore it. The Greeks believed that it protected children from drowning. It was also thought to be potent against poisons, especially when worn upon the throat. Garnet was also said to alert the wearer of approaching danger or disaster and used to be carried as a talisman of protection.
Garnet Color and Identifying
There are several Garnet species that present in many colors such as: red, orange, yellow, green, purple, brown, blue, black, pink, and colorless. The reddish tones are most prevalent and well known. Iron and chromium content in Garnet gives it the blood-red color. This well-known deep red species (named Pyrope) is often discovered in volcanic rock and often indicates the presence of diamond-bearing stone.
Garnet Metaphysical Properties
Effected Areas of the Body:
- Blood
- Heart
- Lungs
- Skin (acne help)
- Joints (arthritis)
Effected Areas of the Spirit:
- Alleviate Insecurities
- Balance Energy
- Success and Goals
- Survival Instinct
- Fortifying
Effected Areas of your Emotions:
- Love and Devotion
- Emotional Harmony
- Positivity and Popularity
- Self-Esteem and Confidence
Garnet has been believed to help heal and clear the body of toxins. In the past, Garnets were even placed into wounds to encourage healing and clotting. It is said to regenerate the body and one’s energy and increase metabolism. It has also been suggested that Garnet will help with the absorption of important vitamins and minerals. Perhaps because of the blood-tone of most popular Garnets, they have been widely associated with blood and heart health.
Garnet is a very balancing stone. It is said to balance emotions and energy but also helps to amplify other stone’s properties or powers. Bad dreams are said to be alleviated by Garnet as well. This deep red stone could be a great choice for anyone dealing with low self-esteem and poor confidence. It is said to help encourage positivity of the mind and spirit and uplift one’s emotions. Garnet could also help to remove inhibitions and open up the heart.
Let go of habits and poor ideas with Garnet and embrace purpose, understanding, and commitment. Garnet may also sharpen your perceptions of people-including yourself! Overall, Garnet is a staple stone that has many facets of positive properties.
*Metaphysical properties are opinions only and not suggested for serious medical conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional for any medical or emotional issues. Any opinions on this website are meant to be purely informative.
Who Wears Garnet?
If you like it, wear it! Garnet is, however, a popular stone in January as it is the traditional January birthstone. Garnet is also the zodiac stone for Aquarius.
Garnet gemstone jewelry has a very rich and impressive look, especially when paired with diamonds. But garnet does not have to come in cut gemstones only! Garnet is also sold in round beads and the deep red color appeals to both men and women.
Combining Garnet with pink or multi-colored Tourmaline really brings out some beautiful colors and looks lovely! Pairing it with Onyx or Labradorite may give it a strong and sturdy appearance which may appeal to those who prefer a traditional “masculine” style. Pearls are also a popular partner stone and will make the Garnet color appear deeper and darker.
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