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Garnet Engagement Rings: 3 Colors to Consider
What is garnet?
Garnet is a beautiful gemstone with great sparkle that comes in numerous colors! The term “garnet” is actually an umbrella term for a group of different minerals that share similar properties. In fact, there are over twenty garnet species! There are several that are more important in terms of jewelry, however.
What is garnet color?
Garnet has three main color groups: red, orange, and green. So much color in just one group, right? That’s one of the reasons I love garnet: so many options. And, it’s more sparkly than other rainbow colored gems. While sapphire, quartz, and spinel also come in a world of color options, they are not quite as refractive as garnet! So, you get the best of both worlds with this gem. Let’s explore:
1. Red Garnets
Best known as a deep red wine color, garnet actually comes in a bunch of different colors! Almandite garnet is a deep brownish red, while Rhodolite is a medium purplish red. This beauty is a stunning custom cut radiant Rhodolite.
2. Orange Garnets
Peach colored pyrope is a beautiful alternative to peach sapphire, and offers more sparkle! Hessonite and Spessartite range from bright to burnt orange. This Spessartite was custom cut with brilliant faceting to make that extra refraction pop.
3. Green Garnets
There are even green types of garnet: tsavorite and demantoid. Tsavorite garnet’s bright coloring actually rivals the most beautiful emeralds (and is typically much more eye clean). On the other hand, demantoid is often praised for its unique “horsetail” inclusions. This Tsavorite is a great example of how dramatic its color can get!
What is the rarest color of garnet?
Green! Tsavorite’s bright green color is mesmerizing – and it’s sharp green sparkle makes for a stunning center stone. This rare beauty is typically found in smaller sizes and is in high demand. Following tsavorite, the second rarest garnet is demantoid, followed by peachy-hued pyrope!
Is garnet an expensive stone?
It depends upon the color and size. Like most gems, the rarer the color, the more expensive the stone! For example, Almandite is a commonly found gem. So, it is very affordable, even in huge sizes. On the other hand, Tsavorite is very rare, even in those small sizes. So, tsavorite can be quite expensive. Tsavorite’s cousin, Demantoid, is also fairly rare, and commands premium pricing. Of the red garnets, Rhodolite’s purplish coloration is more valued than Almandite’s deeper hues, and peachy colored pyrope can demand high premiums.
Is garnet good for a ring?
I love garnet’s variety of hues and its beautiful sparkle. It is one of my favorites! And, many people love to wear garnet as an engagement ring. Dramatic and romantic, garnet’s deep shade is a definite eye catcher. For those seeking a non-traditional, boho, or gothic style engagement ring, it’s a great pick. And it’s fairly durable, which makes it a good choice for a ring!
Can I wear garnet ring everyday?
Garnet is fairly durable at a 7-7.5/10 on the Moh’s hardness scale, but it is not ultra-durable like sapphire, diamond, or moissanite. As a result, it requires some care during wearing. So, if you are very rough on your hands, garnet may not be the best choice. However, if you’re good about being gentle with your fine jewelry, garnet may be perfect for you!
Is garnet a ruby?
No. While garnet and ruby are both red, they are different gemstones. Ruby is a member of the corundum family (its cousin is sapphire). On the other hand, garnet is its own group of gems! Ruby is considered more rare than garnet, and is more durable. Garnet, on the other hand, is more brilliant and often more affordable.
This rectangular ruby well reflects the characteristic velvety depth of color which can help distinguish ruby from garnet.
Is a garnet better than a ruby?
It depends upon what you’re wanting! If you’re looking for a deep red, affordable red center stone, a garnet engagement ring is a great choice! The traditional almandite garnet most people think of tends to be a much deeper hue of red than traditional ruby. It is also significantly less expensive than ruby! However, if you’re looking for a “traditionally precious” gem, ruby may be a better choice. Ruby, at a 9/10 on the hardness scale, is also more durable than the 7-7.5/10 of a garnet.
This pretty garnet shows off the beautiful pink-red hue that makes people love Rhodolite!
What does a garnet ring symbolize?
Almandite garnet, with its deep pomegranate red color, symbolizes passion and intrigue. In fact, the word “garnet” comes from pomegranate! For this reason, garnets are often associated with Hades and Persephone’s love story. So, for any mythology lovers, or those who enjoy spicy romance, this gem is a great conversation starter.
Would you like help designing a garnet engagement ring?
We would love to help you! I have a garnet of my own, so I know what it’s like to love this gem! No matter what kind of garnet engagement ring you’re looking for – red, peach, green! – we’d be happy to help you find the perfect stone.
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