The use of Garnet stones in jewelry can be traced back to the Bronze Age. Their rich, warm colors scintillate when they catch the light and bring balance and poise to the wearer. “My draw to Demantoid’s brilliant green and Rhodolite’s vivid red is that they are not the ‘typical’ ideas of garnets that one may think of” Kar explains. “I love the depth of their colors and using these garnets to create beautiful designer jewelry pieces.”

• Colour: Typically deep pomegranate red, but can also be green (tsavorite), orange (spessartite), or purple.
  

• Origin: India, Mozambique, Madagascar, Tanzania.
  

• Hardness: 6.5–7.5.
  

• Energy: Symbolizes passion, vitality, and protection.
  

• Trivia:
  

• Used in signet rings in ancient Rome.
  

• Crusaders wore garnets for courage in battle.
  

• Birthstone for January.
  

• Care: Generally durable but avoid ultrasonic cleaners.