Garnet

Garnet is a diverse family of gemstones celebrated for its wide spectrum of colours, though it is most often associated with deep, wine-red tones. In fact, garnet occurs in almost every colour except blue. Garnets have adorned jewellery since the ancient Egyptian period, and their rich symbolism includes friendship, trust and passion. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, garnet is suitable for rings with some care. Its durability, affordability and bold colour make it a perennial favourite for unique engagement rings, birthstone pieces and heirloom jewellery. Garnet is the birthstone for January.

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 (Mohs scale) – durable enough for regular wear, but settings that protect the stone are recommended for rings. 

Colour: Most commonly red, but also found in orange (spessartite), green (tsavorite, demantoid), purple, pink, yellow and brown. 

Origin: Major sources include India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Russia, Africa and Brazil. 

Notable Fact: Green garnets (such as tsavorite and demantoid) are especially prized for their brilliance and rarity. In legend, garnet was believed to light the way through darkness and was exchanged as a symbol of safe return.