Pyrope Garnet
Pyrope Garnet
There are several varieties of garnets which differ based on their chemical composition and color. One variety of garnet is pyrope, which are dark red, crimson, orangish-red, or purpleish-red. They are often found without any inclusions and do not need enhancements for clarity or color. Almadine garnets are similar to pyropes, but they are brighter and have a darker color of deep velvety red. These are the most common garnets for jewelry whether they are cut into beads or cabochon, or faceted for elaborate jewelry. Rhodolite is a velvety red garnet with a raspberry red or violet undertone. It is a mix of pyrope and almandine with small amounts of aluminum and magnesium
providing the magnificent color that makes this the most prized garnet.
Pyrope comes from a Greek word meaning “fire like.” The common dark red garnets are a mixture of pyrope and almandine. One popular garnet is chrome pyrope. These are found in Arizona, where ants bring them to the surface. Hence, they are dubbed, “ant hill garnets.” While their color is superb, they are very dark in tone. Gems are rarely faceted in sizes over one carat because of this. In the middle ages, garnet was also called “Karfunkel” in German, referring to the glowing red reminiscent of burning embers.In ancient times it was believed that garnets illuminated the night and prevented the wearer from evil.
Pyrope Garnet is the most famous of the red garnets. Its dark, blood red color is distinct and attractive, often resembling the color of ruby. This gem is often found inclusion free. The impressive brilliance of pyrope garnet is due to it high refraction index. Pyrope is sometimes referred to as “Bohemian Garnet” from its historical source in former Czechoslovakia. Pyrope was the European fashion stone of the 18th and 10th century