Red garnet is one of the most common and widespread of gems. But not all garnets are as abundant as the red ones. A green garnet, tsavorite, is rarer and needs rarer rock chemistries and conditions to form.
Beauty: Garnets are prized for their deep, rich colors and are known for their brilliance and luster. Their natural transparency and clarity allow them to reflect light in a way that makes them particularly appealing for use in jewelry. Garnets are also relatively hard, with a rating of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they are durable enough for everyday wear.
Colors: Red garnets have a long history, but modern gem buyers can pick from a rich palette of garnet colors: greens, oranges, pinkish oranges, deeply saturated purplish reds, and even some blues. Some of the most well-known varieties of garnet include almandine, pyrope, spessartine, grossular, and andradite. Each of these varieties has its own distinct color and characteristics.
Value: The value of garnets varies depending on several factors, including the color, clarity, and size of the stone. Red garnets, such as almandine and pyrope, are generally the most valuable, particularly if they are of a deep, rich color. Other factors that can impact the value of garnets include their cut, carat weight, and origin. Garnets from certain locations, such as Madagascar or Mozambique, are often highly sought after by collectors and can command higher prices.
Overall, garnets are a popular and versatile gemstone that offer a range of colors and styles to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for a bold and vibrant red garnet or a more subtle and understated green or brown stone, garnets offer a range of options to fit your style and budget.
