Member of American Gem Society and
Jewelers of America

About MJ Harrington & Co.

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January - Garnet

Garnet, delivered from Greek "granatum" referring to the color of the pomegranate seed, is available in a stunning array of colors and found all over the world. Red garnets called "carbuncles" were known since Egyptian times. Garnet is also reputed to be one of the original gems of the high priest Aaron's breastplate.

Varieties, Qualities & Origins
The diverse garnet is available in the striking of Pyrope and Almandite; the orange colors of Hessonite and Spessartite; the lovely purple of Rhodolite; the pink to reddish-orange of Malaya; and the intense greens of highly prized Demantoid and Tsavorite. Garnets are found in India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Korea, Russia, Pakistan, the US, Sri Lanka, and throughout Africa.

Gemstone Enhancements
As a group, the garnets owe their color and appearance to mother nature, and are not commonly enhanced by any method.

Hardness (Scratch Resistance) 7-71/2 on the moh's scale

Toughness (Chip & Crack resistance) Fair to Good

Stability (To heat, Light, Chemicals) Avoid abrupt temperature change, hydrofluoric acid..

Cleaning Ultrasonic cleaning safe, never steam clean.

Repair Remove from setting for repairs involving intense heat.

Occasions January Birthstone Aquarius