Rhodolite

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Rhodolite garnet is admired for its transparent pinkish red to raspberry-red hue, which can sometimes lean toward a purple-pink or a rose-pink tone. The gemstone’s vivid color combined with its sparkling brilliance makes it a popular choice for various pieces of jewelry such as rings, pendants, and earrings. Thanks to its relative durability and the regular availability of stones with minimal visible inclusions, rhodolite garnet continues to enjoy steady demand in the gem market.

Chemically, rhodolite garnet is an intermediary mix of pyrope and almandine garnet species, often approximated as Py70Al30. This chemical blend gives rhodolite garnet its alluring shades of pinkish red. With its significant hardness (typically around 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale), rhodolite garnet is suitable for everyday wear and is often faceted to maximize its natural fire and brilliance. Occasionally, one may also encounter rhodolite garnet in cabochon form, especially if the rough stone contains interesting internal features.

Noteworthy rhodolite garnet deposits have been discovered in Brazil, Greenland, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Norway, Sri Lanka, and the United States. In these localities, miners carefully sort through gem-bearing deposits, looking for the characteristic pinkish red crystals. Once extracted, the rough stones undergo cutting and polishing to reveal the gem’s best color saturation and dazzling luster.

Garnet

Garnets as a whole are a group of
silicate minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age as gemstones and abrasives. While all garnets share similar crystal forms and physical properties, their chemical compositions differ. The main garnet species include pyrope, almandine, spessartine, grossular, uvarovite, and andradite. These species form two solid solution series: pyrope-almandine-spessartine and uvarovite-grossular-andradite. Rhodolite garnet belongs in the pyrope-almandine segment, lending it a unique blend of fiery red and soft pinkish tones.

Etymology

The word “garnet” comes from 14th-century Middle English gernet, meaning “dark red.” It is derived from the Latin granatus, from granum, possibly referring to mela granatum or pomum granatum (the pomegranate), whose seeds bear a striking resemblance in shape, size, and color to some garnet crystals.

Gemological properties

Garnet species can be found in a wide spectrum of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, purple, brown, blue, black, pink, and colorless. However, red garnets remain the most commonly encountered. High-quality rhodolite garnet stands out for its pinkish red shades, often accompanied by hints of purple. Gem cutters look for rough stones that display an even saturation and minimal inclusions to make faceted pieces with superior brilliance.

Like other garnets, rhodolite garnet can range from nearly transparent to opaque, depending on its internal clarity and composition. Opaque varieties are more often used as abrasives in industrial settings, while transparent specimens are typically cut and polished for use as jewelry. With its vitreous to resinous luster, rhodolite garnet can bring a vibrant pop of color to any piece of jewelry.

Rhodolite garnet meaning and healing properties

The following section is pseudo-scientific and based on cultural beliefs.

Rhodolite garnet is often associated with inspiration and emotional healing. Many believe it encourages love, kindness, and compassion, while promoting self-worth and spiritual growth. It is sometimes regarded as helpful for individuals recovering from emotional or psychological traumas, particularly those stemming from guilt or shame.

Chakras

Rhodolite garnet is frequently linked to the heart and crown chakras. Its supportive energy is said to help open one’s heart to both giving and receiving love. Additionally, it may foster self-compassion and empathy, aiding in emotional healing and personal transformation.

Rhodolite garnet from Tanzania

Identifying and caring for rhodolite garnet

When purchasing rhodolite garnet, look for a vibrant, evenly distributed color without noticeable brown or gray overtones. Higher quality stones usually exhibit a strong pinkish red hue with flashes of purple. Always examine the stone under good lighting, and consider requesting a reputable gemological certificate to confirm authenticity and quality.

Caring for rhodolite garnet is relatively straightforward. Because of its decent hardness, rhodolite garnet can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or extreme temperature changes that might damage the stone or its setting. By taking these simple precautions, your rhodolite garnet jewelry can retain its beauty and shine for many years.

FAQ

What is the difference between a garnet and a rhodolite?

Rhodolite garnet is a rose-red to pinkish-red form of garnet that typically has a lighter tone and more purplish color than many other garnet varieties. It is generally an intermediary variety between pyrope and almandine, containing more magnesium than iron, resulting in its vibrant pinkish hue.

Is rhodolite garnet rare?

Fine-quality rhodolite garnet can be considered rare. The most valuable stones exhibit a medium tone and high saturation in a pinkish red color, sometimes referred to as the “spirit color” by miners. Such material can be quite difficult to find.

What is a rhodolite garnet worth?

Rhodolite garnet prices can start around $30 per carat for darker stones with a brownish cast and go up to about $200 per carat for very fine pinkish reds. The exact value depends on factors such as color saturation, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

What birthstone is rhodolite?

Rhodolite garnet is often regarded as an alternative birthstone for June. Its rich rose-red color offers an eye-catching alternative to the more traditional birthstones of that month.

Is a rhodolite meaning a real garnet?

Yes, rhodolite garnet is a genuine variety of garnet, typically composed of two parts pyrope and one part almandine. It retains the fundamental traits of the garnet family while showcasing a distinctive pinkish red color.

Where do rhodolite stones come from?

Rhodolite garnet deposits occur in Brazil, Myanmar, China, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Tanzania, the USA, and Zimbabwe. Each locality may produce slightly different color nuances or clarity characteristics, but the stone’s general properties remain the same.

How do I care for rhodolite garnet jewelry?

Rhodolite garnet jewelry can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes that might stress the gemstone or its setting. Periodically check any prongs or settings to ensure they remain secure.

Is rhodolite garnet suitable for everyday wear?

Yes. With a hardness of around 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, rhodolite garnet is durable enough for everyday wear. However, always store it separately from harder stones to prevent scratches and maintain its lustrous appearance.

Natural rhodolite for sale in our gem shop

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