Garnet is readily obtained across the globe, in such places as Africa, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Sri Lanka, USA and India. The stones range from reddish brown to ruby red, with a wide variation between the two.
In crystal healing, garnet is a powerful stone. The two common varieties, pyrope and almandine, carry different healing properties. Pyrope garnet brings vitality and warmth to the system, improves circulation and enhances feelings of love. Almandine garnets are grounding, and energize the root chakra.
Garnets help the wearer discard old ways of thinking and eliminate old patterns, while opening the way to vitality and abundance. They can bring the heart into alignment with a higher expression of love.
One of my favorite combinations is the rich red of garnet with the lustrous delicacy of freshwater pearls. The two almost seem made for each other, and together create stunning pieces of jewelry that will accentuate the most formal gown, or dress up an everyday outfit with pizazz.
A pair of pearl earrings with small garnet accents would make a perfect birthday gift for a January girl. Add a delicate bracelet with alternating pearls, Swarovski crystals and beautiful garnets for a gift she will never forget.