Rhodolite Garnet

Rhodolite garnet is a raspberry-red, purplish-red or colored garnet. It is a mix of pyrope and almandine in composition. Rhodolite garnet gets its name from the Greek word, "rhodon", meaning "rose colored", which refers to its pinkish hue.

The name "garnet" comes from the Medieval Latin word, "granatum", which is an adjective meaning "dark-red". It is thought that this adjective could have been extracted from the word "pomegranate", due to the color. of the seed coats or shape of the seeds. However, the word could also have come from another Medieval Latin word; "granum", referring to red dye. The use of red garnet dates back thousands of years, when it was used by Egyptian pharaohs for both decorative and ceremonial purposes. The ancient Romans also wore garnet rings and traded garnet gemstones. The best rhodolite garnet gemstones are a vivid raspberry-red color.

Rhodolite Garnet Gemstone Properties

Rhodolite Garnet Color & Occurence

Rhodolite garnets can be rose pink, purplish-pink, raspberry-red or purplish-red. The most desired color is raspberry red.

Rhodolite garnet deposits occur in Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), China, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), South Africa, Tanzania, the USA and Zimbabwe.

Healing Power of Rhodolite Garnet

Garnet has long been thought of as a travelers' stone. In fact, Noah's Ark is said to have had a garnet lantern to help navigate during the night. In traditional Hindu belief systems, garnet is associated with Muladhara, or the "root chakra", which is positioned at the base of the spine. The root chakra when clear is associated with healthy sexual activity and feelings of security and stability.

Mystical Power in Rhodolite Garnet

Garnet is also thought to promote successful business, encourage compassion and aid self-confidence. Garnet is said to have the ability to heal the blood and encourage good circulation. Garnet is the traditional birthstone for January, the zodiacal stone for Aquarius and the second anniversary stone.