Garnet is a crystal with a grand, though somewhat disputed reputation. Garnet is essentially a mineral group comprised of many, and near entirely varied, representatives. The dispute among certain individuals working in science and magic stems from whether or not some of the representatives should even be considered garnet; yet, due mainly to similarities in formation, often the variations are lumped together.
Crystal – Garnet
Mineral Class: Island Silicate
Energy: Projective
Planet: Mars
Elements: Fire
Deity: Sekhmet, Egyptian Goddess of War
Powers: Healing, Protection, Strength
Garnet is a crystal with a grand, though somewhat disputed reputation. Garnet is essentially a mineral group comprised of many, and near entirely varied, representatives. The dispute among certain individuals working in science and magic stems from whether or not some of the representatives should even be considered garnet; yet, due mainly to similarities in formation, often the variations are lumped together. Some of garnet’s variants include: Alamandine (red, brown and black in color), which provides a thirst for action, imagination, and abilities in wound healing; Grossularite (grey, green and pink), which aids in relaxation, fortifying kidneys, skin health and arthritis; Melanite (black), which encourages honesty, resistance and bone strength; Rhodolite (dark red to reddish violet), which brings a joy to life, warmth, healthy sexuality and stimulates metabolism; and Uvarovite (emerald green), which boosts individuality, enthusiasm and detoxification and can help lower fevers.
Historically, red garnet, most likely a form of Alamandine, was reported in medieval times to glow in the dark and was considered to illuminate the darkened soul (interpretations welcome). In the 13th century it was worn, by those who could afford it, to ward off insects. It was also know to ward off demons and night phantoms. Heroes, warriors and soldiers, from many different backgrounds, have been known to wear garnet or embed it into swords and shields as a means to improve their physical strength, boost their courage and to protect them from injury.
In the world of medicine, Rhodolite, among some of its sister garnet stones, has been used to stimulate metabolism and harmonize body fluid composition, especially that of blood. It is said that garnet may also be used to stabilize circulation, fortify the immune system and accelerate healing of inner and outer wounds.
In terms of magic, whether by meditation, ritual or other practice, garnet may be used to bring resolutions to otherwise difficult problems. It is considered the go-to stone for times of crisis: bringing strength, courage and self-confidence. Garnet, similarly to how it aids warriors, makes the wearers more resilient to problems that would have previously troubled them by eliminating unnecessary taboos and inhibitions. A person using garnet may notice an increase in idea-flow, with newer and brighter ideas coming with readiness and ease. Perhaps most importantly, garnet has been known to repel negative energies as brought on by individuals, situations or environments.
Thanks for checking in on this week’s NG, next week we’ll be discussing pine oil.
Z. Smith is a cookie connoisseur, moonlight meanderer, and aesthete at large. His work has appeared in 13 Experiments, Folio, Stone Soup Review, SLUG Magazine, Salt Lake City Weekly, and CATALYST Magazine. He earned his BA in English from The University of Utah and currently writes from a room with many plants.
Resources:
Crystal Power, Crystal Healing: The Complete Handbook by Michael Gienger
www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/garnet
Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic by Scott Cunningham