Grossular
Grossular Garnet: A Unique and Versatile Gemstone
Grossular garnet is a fascinating calcium-aluminium mineral species belonging to the diverse garnet group. Known for its captivating color variations and unique physical properties, this gemstone is not only visually striking but also geologically significant. Grossular, often referred to by its chemical formula Ca3Al2(SiO4)3, has a notable place in mineralogy, with its calcium sometimes partially replaced by ferrous iron and its aluminium replaced by ferric iron. The name “grossular” is derived from the botanical name for gooseberry, “grossularia,” which references the gemstone’s resemblance to the green fruit, particularly those found in Siberia.
Buy Natural Hessonite in Our Shop
Colors and Varieties
Grossular is notable for its wide range of colors, which extend well beyond the typical greens. While the green variety of grossular may be reminiscent of a gooseberry, this gemstone also exhibits shades like cinnamon brown, red, orange, and yellow. The brownish variety, known as “cinnamon stone” or hessonite, is especially popular. Other shades of grossular include colorless (which is quite rare), pink, and even black. Each of these color variations is associated with different trace elements and geological conditions, making grossular a gemstone with a rich story to tell.
In geological literature, grossular has often been called “grossularite.” However, since 1971, the International Mineralogical Association has discouraged the use of the term grossularite to avoid confusion and maintain consistency in mineral classification.
Hessonite: The “Cinnamon Stone”
Hessonite, also called the “cinnamon stone,” is one of the most well-known and commercially valuable varieties of grossular. With the general chemical formula Ca3Al2Si3O12, hessonite has a distinctive reddish color, often inclining toward orange or yellow, giving it a visual similarity to zircon. Interestingly, many engraved gemstones thought to be zircon were later discovered to be hessonite, as confirmed by Sir Arthur Herbert Church.
This variety of grossular garnet has a relatively low specific gravity, ranging from 3.64 to 3.69, compared to zircon, which has a specific gravity of around 4.6. The hardness of hessonite on the Mohs scale is about 7, making it comparable to quartz, whereas most garnet species are slightly harder, ranging up to 7.5.
Hessonite is primarily sourced from Sri Lanka and India, where it is usually found in placer deposits—though occurrences in native matrix rock have also been documented. Other notable sources include Brazil and California, making hessonite a gemstone found across several diverse geological settings.
Deposits and Formation
Grossular garnet is typically formed in contact metamorphosed limestones, often in association with other minerals such as vesuvianite, diopside, wollastonite, and wernerite. The formation of grossular involves specific geological conditions, often linked to the high temperatures and pressures of metamorphic environments.
One highly prized variety of grossular is tsavorite, a vivid green gemstone discovered in the 1960s in the Tsavo region of Kenya. Tsavorite garnets from Kenya and Tanzania are among the finest green garnets available today, sought after for their intense color and brilliance.
Viluite, a less common variety of grossular, is often olive green, though it may also appear brownish or reddish depending on the impurities present in the crystal. Viluite is sometimes confused with vesuvianite, as the two share similar characteristics. This confusion is reflected in the mineral nomenclature that dates back to James Dwight Dana, with viluite long being used as a synonym for wiluite, a mineral of the vesuvianite group. Vilyuy River (link) area in Siberia, highlighting the geological richness of the region.
Other Names and Misnomers
Grossular garnet is known by several other names, which often add to the confusion among gemstone enthusiasts and collectors. Some of the historical and colloquial names include colophonite, a term used for coarse granules of garnet, and ernite. Gooseberry garnet is a name sometimes used to describe light green grossular varieties. Other names, such as olyntholite (or olytholite), romanzovite, and tellemarkite, are used less frequently but still appear in some literature.
Additionally, grossular garnet has often been misnamed as jade due to its green color. Names like “South African jade,” “garnet jade,” “Transvaal jade,” and “African jade” are misleading, as these stones are not true jade but rather varieties of grossular garnet. This confusion emphasizes the importance of correct mineral identification, especially for gem collectors and buyers.
Sample from Mali
Physical and Metaphysical Properties
Grossular garnet is valued not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its metaphysical properties. This gemstone is believed to enhance creativity and promote prosperity. In crystal healing, it is used to balance energy flow throughout the body, from the root to the crown chakra. It is thought to ease the discomfort of conditions like rheumatism and arthritis, making it popular among those who value its purported healing abilities. Grossular garnet is often regarded as a stone of commitment and devotion, enhancing one’s ability to manifest desires and bring positive change.
Color Varieties and Value
Grossular garnet comes in a wide spectrum of colors, each with its unique charm. While green grossular is iconic, other hues, such as yellow, orange, brown, and even pink, are equally captivating. Gem-quality stones are sourced from several countries, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, South Africa, Tanzania, Russia, and the United States. The value of grossular garnet can vary significantly depending on color, clarity, and carat weight. High-quality stones of 1 to 3 carats can range from $300 to $2,500 per carat, depending on their rarity and desirability.
FAQ
Common Questions About Grossular Garnet
What is grossular used for?
Grossular garnet has multiple uses, ranging from jewelry to crystal healing. In addition to being a beautiful gemstone, it is believed to have healing properties that can alleviate rheumatic and arthritic pain. It is also said to promote energy balance, from the root to the crown chakra, and to help with commitment, devotion, and creativity.
What color is grossular?
Grossular garnet can be found in a wide range of colors: colorless (which is rare), white, gray, yellow, yellowish green, green (from pale apple-green to deep emerald green), brown, pink, orange, orange-red, red, and even black. This variety of colors makes grossular a versatile choice for collectors and jewelers alike.
How much is grossular worth?
The value of grossular garnet depends on its quality and rarity. Gem-quality grossular is found in places such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, South Africa, Tanzania, Russia, and the United States. Prices for the best-quality stones ranging from 1 to 3 carats can range from $300 to $2,500 per carat.
Where can I buy grossular garnet?
You can find a variety of grossular garnets, including hessonite, in our gem shop. We offer gemstones that are perfect for custom-made jewelry, ensuring each piece is crafted to meet your specifications and desires. Visit our store or browse our collection online to find the perfect grossular garnet for your needs.
Natural Hessonite for Sale in Our Gem Shop
Our gem shop offers a variety of natural hessonite gemstones, perfect for creating custom-made jewelry pieces such as engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants. We take pride in offering gemstones of the highest quality, sourced responsibly and crafted into beautiful, personalized pieces. Please contact us for a quote, and let us help you bring your vision to life.
