The name garnet is derived from the Latin word 'granatum' which means pomegranate.  Garnets come in many varieties, the most common being the almandine garnet or the rhodolite garnet.  Both are red varieties of garnets as is a third variety called pyrope garnet.  We sell rhodolite garnets and a mixed breed called almandine-pyrope garnet in our jewelry.  Garnet does come in many other colors, including green, black, orange, and more.

Red garnets have been treasured for thousands of years.  Garnets were believed to cure fever and promote good health.  Garnets were worn for protection by travelers.  Over the years, this gem has meant many things to many people, symbolizing fire, faith, truth, grace, constanty, and fidelity.

Garnets are found all over the world.  The best sources for the almandine-pyrope garnet are the Garnet Queen Mine in northern Idaho.They were also found years ago in Bohemia, Czechoslovakia, and Russia's Ural Mountains.  Other garnet mines of note are in Africa, India, and Sri Lanka.   They are also found in gem quality in Tanzania, Kenya, and even Arizona.

Garnet is the birthstone for January.