Garnet

Garnet, often called the “Stone of Happiness,” is the official mineral of the U.S. state of Connecticut, where our company is located.

The name of the gem comes from the Latin word “granatum,” meaning pomegranate, because the granular varieties of garnet resemble the seeds of that fruit.

Garnets have been used in Europe since the Bronze Age and in Egypt for more than five thousand years. They appeared in Sumerian culture around 2100 B.C. and were also used in Sweden between 1000 and 2000 B.C. Garnets were popular in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations as well.

According to the Talmud, the only light on Noah’s Ark was provided by a large garnet. Garnet was also one of the twelve stones in the Breastplate of the High Priest. Throughout history, it has been regarded as a sacred stone by Native American tribes, South American civilizations, the Aztecs, African tribal elders, and the Mayans.

In Europe during the Middle Ages, garnet was believed to enhance truth, faith, and constancy while helping to dispel melancholy. These gems were often set in gold jewelry and decorative pieces, particularly in Anglo-Saxon England and across regions extending toward the Black Sea.

Garnet has long been associated with primordial fire, symbolizing creation, purification, and love. It is considered a stone of strong and passionate energy. In legends and folklore, garnet is often described as one of the most ancient talismans. As a “Warrior’s Stone,” garnet was used as a protective amulet during the Crusades by both Christians and Muslims.

Historically, garnet was valued for its perceived protective and energizing qualities. It was believed to help support the body and environment, and in ancient times stones were sometimes placed on wounds.

Garnet is also regarded as a stone connected with creative and sensual energy. It is believed to help ground spiritual forces within the body and encourage balance and vitality. Garnet is thought to provide a protective influence and stable energy. According to tradition, placing garnet under a pillow may help reduce bad dreams, and the stone has long been associated with support during stressful situations.