Garnet

An expert will likely understand Garnet as the name for a group of more than 10 different gems with a similar chemical structure. They are silicate minerals often found in beautiful dodecahedral habits. Common crystal admirers are most often aware of 2 specific Garnet varieties, Almandine and Pyrope.

Although a deep red colour is the most frequent occurrence, there are also Garnets of green, yellow, orange and brown earthy tones. Garnets are adored in jewelry from ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman eras, and it is said that Noah used a lantern made from Garnet in order to safely steer his Ark through the darkness of night. Many travelers and explorers wore Garnet for protection, believing that they 'illuminate the night'. Science explains to us now that their luminosity is caused by highlight refraction.

Garnet's energetic virtues have long been recognized to include passion, friendship, self-esteem, loyalty, devotion, consistency and truth. Those sure sound to me like qualities which 'illuminate the night'!

Garnet is dense and heavy in the hand, imparting stability and grounding. It connects us deeply to our body, thus negative energies/entities cannot attach themselves. It is a fiery stone, revitalizing and purifying our energy bodies, inspiring passion, sensuality and a healthy sex drive. Activating the root/base chakra, Garnet strengthens the survival instinct with courage and hope. It can activate kundalini, yet in a stable and grounding way with its steady, slow vibrations.

Garnet is said to stimulate the body's metabolism, assist disorders of the spine, bones and cellular structure while also purifying the heart, lungs and blood.