Garnet

Garnet derived from the Greek word “granatum”. The blood-red color of pyrope is due o its iron and chromium content. Red Garnet called carbuncles were known since Egyptian times. It has cubical crystal system. It rarely has inclusions but when present they are rounded crystals or have irregular outlines. They vary from transparent from semi-opaque. When transparent the crystal has good luster. Garnets have no cleavage.  Garnet jewelry has been made from 500 years.

Hardness:- 7.0

Occurrence:
It is not a rare mineral. It is found with other minerals. It is found in India, USA, Madagascar and Brazil.

Value:
The value of red garnet is not high. Though jewelry of garnet is made from more than 500 years but it is still not highly priced.