GARNETS of IDAHO AND MONTANA
Through the years we’ve sourced many garnets from Idaho and Montana. These prevalent gemstones come in every shade of red. And these stones can range from rich warm reds to grape-juicy purples to hot pinks and browns. You’ll love this January birthstone that provides a splash of color whenever it’s worn.
MONTANA GARNETS FROM HELENA AND RUBY RESERVOIR ; IDAHO ONES FROM ST. MARIE’S
Although relatively common, Montana garnets are quite lovely. Ours come from 2 main locations – Helena and the Ruby Reservoir. These gemstones are of the pyrope-almandite varieties but the colors vary depending on location. Our garnets from the sapphire mines near Helena have varying degrees of orange in them. And you’ll find the Montana garnets from the Ruby Reservoir area produce a more violet-hued red – resembling rhodolite.
FUN FACTS:
Traditional January birthstone and accepted gift for the 18th wedding anniversary. It is considered good luck to receive a garnet as a gift. In the Middle Ages, garnet was used to ward off harm. They also used it to increase chivalry, loyalty and honesty. Wearing or carrying this gem has been considered insurance for travelers against misfortune.
GEMSTONE PROPERTIES:
Hardness ranges between 7.0 and 7.5 on the Mohs Scale. Idaho and Montana garnets are usually a variety known as almondine but Pyrope or a combination of almondine and pyrope is also quite common.
HEALING PROPERTIES:
Montana and Idaho garnets are credited with properties to help your health.
Use garnets for the following healing properties:
- Awareness
- Commitment
- Removal of Negativity
- Regeneration
- Order and Insight
- Stop bleeding (red variety)
- Prevention of or curing of blood disorders and infections. (red variety)
- Increase Passion in your life (red variety)
Garnets are associated with the Red Chakra named Muladhara. Located at the base of the spine, it is responsible for sensuality, action, vitality and touch. Use your red hued gemstone when feeling anxious, lacking energy or experiencing irritable bowels.