Garnet

Garnet is a gemstone known for its rich red color, although it can also occur in various shades of red, including deep crimson, vibrant scarlet, and subtle pinkish-red. When polished, it typically exhibits a vitreous luster and has a transparent to translucent appearance. Garnets often have a well-defined crystal structure and may display natural inclusions or veining within the stone. They are commonly cut into round, oval, and pear shapes to showcase their beauty.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Garnet is a mineral with a crystalline structure and typically exhibits a vitreous luster when polished. Its moderate hardness makes it suitable for use in jewelry and decorative objects. Chemically, garnet is a group of silicate minerals composed primarily of silicon, oxygen, and various metal ions such as aluminum, calcium, or iron. Garnets may vary in transparency, from transparent to translucent, and often contain natural inclusions or veining within the stone. Overall, garnets possess unique physical and chemical properties that contribute to their distinctive appearance and suitability for various applications.

Geology & Geography

Garnets are commonly found in the New Angeles Mines, nestled within the depths of the surrounding mountains. However, they are notably more abundant in the Crystal Grotto, a hidden underground chamber accessible through the intricate network of tunnels within the mines. This unique location provides the ideal conditions for forming garnets alongside other precious gemstones. The Crystal Grotto is renowned for its breathtaking display of crystals, including abundant garnet specimens, making it a prime source for these highly sought-after gemstones.

History & Usage

Everyday use

In everyday life, garnet is primarily used in jewelry making due to its rich color and durability. It is commonly set into rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets to create elegant and stylish pieces suitable for casual and formal occasions. Garnet jewelry adds a pop of color and sophistication to any outfit, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Additionally, garnet may be used in decorative objects, such as ornaments or figurines, to enhance the aesthetic appeal of living spaces. While less common than other gemstones, garnet is highly valued for its natural beauty and versatility, making it a cherished addition to everyday life. In magic, garnets are valued for their energetic properties and symbolism. They are often used in enchanted items and potions to enhance magical abilities, provide protection, or promote spiritual growth. Garnets are believed to possess qualities such as vitality, strength, and passion, making them valuable tools for various magical practices. In magic items, garnets may be set into amulets, talismans, or wands to imbue them with their powerful energy and protective qualities. In potions, garnets may be ground into a fine powder or infused into liquids to enhance their potency or to create potions with specific magical effects related to vitality, courage, or love. Affinities

Energy

Inspiration

Passion

Protection

Self-confidence

Strength

Success

Vitality

Refinement

Garnets typically require some refinement before they can be used in jewelry or magical items. Raw garnets may appear rough, opaque, and irregular in shape in their natural form, lacking the clarity and brilliance associated with finished gemstones. Therefore, cutting and polishing raw garnets is a common practice to enhance their transparency, color, and overall appearance. This process involves shaping the garnet into facets to maximize its sparkle and fire and removing any surface imperfections or inclusions that may detract from its beauty. Once refined, garnets can be set into jewelry settings or incorporated into enchanted items, allowing their natural beauty and energetic properties to shine.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Garnets are sold by the Crystal Guild, which refines the raw stones obtained from the Miners Guild. After processing, the Crystal Guild offers garnets in their various shops throughout our realm's five cities. While garnets may not be as commonly associated with luxury as other gemstones like diamonds or emeralds, they are still highly valued for their beauty and versatility. Garnet jewelry is often considered affordable, offering a rich and vibrant alternative to more expensive gemstones. As such, garnets are prized by individuals seeking elegant and stylish jewelry without the hefty price tag.

Storage

Garnets are stored with care to ensure their safety and preserve beauty. Loose garnets may be kept in individual compartments within a jewelry box or stored in small pouches to prevent scratching or damage. Larger garnet specimens or finished jewelry pieces are often stored in secure display cases or safes to protect them from theft or loss. It's important to store garnets away from other gemstones and metals to prevent scratching, and they should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to avoid damage or discoloration.