WHAT IS PURPLE GARNET?


You might have seen a lot of purple gemstones, but never one like this! Carefully turning purple garnet in your hands, you observe the mystical and magical charm of the universe this stone is famous for. A beautiful member of pyrope-almandine garnet group, purple garnet is a rare variety of garnet, popular for displaying a brilliant purple tone that reminds us of grapes.

 
 
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Determining Purple Garnet Value

Is purple garnet valuable? The value of colored stones is typically determined by a combination of its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This is no different when determining what purple garnet is worth. These guidelines will help you choose garnet stones for your jewelry collection.

  • Purple Garnet Color

This gemstone displays a lively purple tone that reminds us of delicious grapes. Rivalling the beauty and price of amethyst, this gemstone is popular for its extremely high refractive index and exceptional brilliance. To the untrained eye, at first glance, it may look like amethyst, but when light enters, you will witness its sub-adamantine (almost diamond-like) luster and wonderful purple color. This jewel’s rich purple color is due to the strong presence of magnesium and iron within the stone.

When choosing purple garnet, the stone’s color and inclusions are most important. A gemstone with higher color saturation and fewer inclusions is highly preferred and draws a higher price in today’s market.

  • Purple Garnet Clarity

Purple garnet belongs to the Type II category of GIA clarity grading system. It implies that the stone contains inclusions. But due to its saturated deep color and small size, the gemstone appears eye-clean. Standard 10x magnification is required to view any of the inclusions within this stone.

Inclusions are accepted in this colorful loose gemstone. However, a large amount of inclusions decreases the value of the purple garnet gemstone, especially when they affect how it displays color.

  • Purple Garnet Cut

Cuts of purple garnet gemstone depends on the presence of right color saturation, and its freeness from inclusions. The gemstone is found with standard cuts and shapes. This includes rounds, ovals, pears, squares, octagons, marquise, cushion. Purple garnet is also available in a variety of other cuts such as checkerboard.

  • Purple Garnet Carat

Purple garnet is found in small sizes. The value of the gemstone goes up significantly with size, especially in fine specimens. The size range of this gemstone is 4 millimeter to 5mm in oval, round and marquise shapes.

Carat weight of this variety of garnet ranges from about two-third carats to 2 carats. However, stones in larger size such as 8mm x 6mm are quite uncommon.

Purple Garnet Treatment

The gemstone is natural and does not undergo any known treatment.

Caring for Purple Garnet

Purple garnet measures 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It has fair to good toughness, which makes it a durable gemstone for regular use. However, the gem should be protected from extreme heat as it can cause fracture in the stone. Also, the use of harsh chemicals and cleaners should be avoided. It is usually safe to clean purple garnet using ultrasonic cleaners.

Purple garnet gemstone and jewelry can be cleaned using warm water with mild dishwashing detergent. Scrub gently with a soft bristled brush. Rinse the gemstone with cool, fresh water. Dry with a soft lint-free cloth.

Wrap the purple garnet jewelry or gemstones in a soft cloth before storing or use a fabric-lined storage box. Always store gemstone jewelry separately to prevent any accidental damage.

Who Can Wear Purple Garnet?

Displaying luscious grape color, purple garnet is a versatile gemstone and ideal choice for any jewelry style from rings, earrings, bracelets or pendants. This gemstone exudes gorgeous purple hues with a hint of red that pairs perfectly with glistering yellow, radiating red or even calming whites. Consider purple garnet jewelry if you love amethyst, ruby, purple spinel and other rich colored gemstones.

Someone looking for a contemporary twist on a traditional look can also opt for purple garnet jewelry as it beautifully complements black or green dresses.

Also, garnet jewelry is an ideal gift choice for those celebrating their 2nd wedding anniversary.

How Does Purple Garnet Compare to Other Purple Stones?

Purple garnet is prized for displaying lively purple color, reminiscent of grapes. Most frequently, this gemstone draws a comparison to amethyst, rhodolite garnet, and purple spinel that displays a more intense purple color.

Compared to other gemstones, purple garnet has an extremely high refractive index and that's what gives the gemstone its exceptional brilliance.

Where Does Purple Garnet Come From?

Shop LC sources this garnet variety from the Republic of Mozambique. Located in southeastern Africa, the Mozambique mine is an important supplier of high-quality raw mineral material.

Other locations where this variety of garnet is found are India, Tanzanite, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

Purple Garnet Properties

What Does Purple Garnet Mean?

Many gem therapists view purple garnet as a crystal of inspiration and emotional healing. It is said to encourage love, kindness and compassion, and promotes self-worth and spiritual growth. In Ancient Egypt, this gemstone was a symbol of life. Purple garnet symbolizes constructiveness. The gemstone is also believed to bring hope to people.

This purple gemstone is said to treat disturbed blood circulation and strengthen the heart. Just like other varieties of garnets, purple garnet encourages feelings of joy, promotes willpower and stimulates the imagination.

Disclaimer: Use of any stone or mineral is not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment, and nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information provided should not be used to treat any illness, injury, medical condition, or ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health professional.

Is Purple Garnet a Birthstone?

Garnet is the modern birthstone for January. With a lively purple color that reminds of delicious grapes, purple garnet is a welcome addition to this list.

Purple Garnet Facts

  • Purple garnet ranks 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
  • Purple garnet displays a lively purple color, reminiscent of grapes.
  • Purple garnet is sourced from the Republic of Mozambique, Africa.
  • Purple garnet is natural and untreated.
  • Purple garnet is also known as rhodolite garnet.