GROSSULAR GARNET

Grossular Garnet is a variety of garnet, which occurs in different forms – as a light to dark green transparent gem; as a massive, opaque or translucent material; or as a marble‑like rock. Garnets are nesosilicate minerals and they constitute an isomorphous series, that is, their crystal structure is basically the same (X₃Y₂(SiO₃)₄), but they differ in their chemical compositions. There are over 20 different garnet species, but only 6 of them are considered to be gem-worthy, some of which include a few varieties. These species are pyrope, almandine, spessartite, grossularite, andradite and uvarovite. Grossular is a calcium-alluminum nesosilicate mineral (Ca₃Al₂(SiO₃)₄) and is one of the varieties under the Garnet Grossularite species, together with hessonite and tsavorite, among others.

For years, the grossular garnet gems were valued relatively lower than their richer color variety – tsavorite garnets. However, in recent years, because of the rising demand for their light pleasant green colors, they are valued at almost the same prices as tsavorites.

LEGEND AND LORE

Garnets in every variety are birthstones of the month of January. It is traditionally given on the 2nd and 6th wedding anniversaries.

Grossular is considered a potent stone for prosperity and is helpful in promoting business growth and dealing with money problems. It is thought to encourage cooperation and boost passion and energy in a relationship. It is believed to help the body recover after trauma by helping in the regeneration of new cells and the stimulation of blood. It also boosts the immune and respiratory systems in the body.

GARNET, GROSSULAR COLORS

Grossular garnet gems, also known as green or mint-green garnets, produces colors ranging from orangey Yellow (7) to yellowish Green (12) to bluish Green (17) with very slightly to slightly saturated levels. The color of grossulars depend on the type and amount of impurities in the gemstone - iron causes brown and green colors, whereas chromium causes a rich-green hue.

GARNET, GROSSULAR SOURCES

Grossular is mined in Tanzania, Kenya, USA, Canada and Russia.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Variety: Grossular
Species/Series: Garnet, Grossularite
Chemical Composition: Calcium-Aluminum Nesosilicate (Ca₃Al₂(SiO₃)₄)
Crystal System: Isometric (Cubic)
Color: from Orange, orangey Yellow, gold to yellowish Green to bluish Green
Hardness: 7.0 to 7.5
Refractive Index: 1.740 (+0.020/-0.010)
Specific Gravity: 3.61 (+0.12/-0.04)

For information on other Garnet varieties, select Garnet in the Gem Type field.

Properties
Reactions
Major Sources
Grading Information GEM, AAA, AA, A+, A, B
Enhancement Code
Specific Gravity: 3.62

Source: 

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