WHAT IS RATNAPURA HESSONITE GARNET?
Hessonite is a variety of grossular garnet. Its name finds its roots in the Greek word "hesson," meaning "inferior," an allusion to its lower hardness and density than most other garnet varieties. However, the name doesn’t reflect on the gemstone’s beauty and popularity.
Due to its orange-brown color, as well as its historic connection to the spice-producing country of Sri Lanka, this garnet is also known as “cinnamon stone.”
Hessonite is known as ‘Gomed’ or ‘Gomedak’ in Sanskrit. It belongs to the nine planetary gemstones in the Vedic tradition of India and is considered representative of Rahu, the ascending lunar node. Its astrological significance makes it a very popular stone in India.
Determining Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Value
Is Ratnapura hessonite garnet valuable? The value of colored stones is typically determined by a combination of its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This is no different when determining what hessonite garnet is worth. These guidelines will help you choose garnet stones for your collection.
- Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Color
The Ratnapura hessonite garnet gets its astonishing color from trace amounts of iron and manganese. Colors spans from honey-yellow to orange-brown to brown-red. The gem is nicknamed ‘cinnamon stone’ due to its rare and coveted burnt orange color. The color of the gem gives it the delightful warmth of honey or seething lava hue.
- Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Clarity
Ratnapura hessonite possesses Type II eye-clean clarity. The gem often comes with a characteristic roiled or heat effect known as ‘whisky in water,’ owing to the visual effect that resembles roiling or disturbed water within the stone. This effect can be seen in stones around five carats or larger. A slight inclusion of this kind is commonly acceptable. However, absence of this effect does not mean the stone is fake, simulated or less valuable.
- Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Cut
Ratnapura hessonite garnet is found in all faceted shapes like baguette, cushion, and marquis, but is most popular in round, oval and pear cuts.
- Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Carat
Like many other garnets, Ratnapura hessonite garnet looks its best in smaller sizes, as the gem’s full potential of color display comes to the fore. While the intensity and vibrancy of color in a colored gemstone is its most important factor, the effect can become spoiled when the hue is too dark. The average carat size is up to 2 carats. Bigger carat sizes demand higher prices.
Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Treatment
Ratnapura hessonite garnet undergoes no additional treatment.
Caring for Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet
With a 6.5 to 7.5 rank on Mohs scale of hardness and fair to good toughness, hessonite garnet is a great stone to consider for daily wear jewelry. It is resistant to abrasion, and not likely to scratch. Protective settings are preferred for this gemstone. Sudden temperature change can cause fracturing, and should be avoided.
Wear hessonite jewelry with confidence, as this stone is low maintenance and easy to clean. A simple solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water, plus a soft bristle brush is all that’s needed. Rinse with cool, fresh water. Dry gently with a soft cloth.
Store Ratnapura hessonite garnet in a fabric lined jewelry box. This will help preserve your stone for years of enjoyment.
Who Can Wear Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet?
If you have an affection for warm, fiery colors then Ratnapura hessonite garnet is the gem for you. Flaunting a range of colors from honey-yellow to brown red, hessonite garnet is a great pick for those who like to add a sizzle to their look with gems like fire opal, topaz, citrine or spessartine garnet.
The gorgeous color of this gemstone makes an excellent companion with soft white and fresh green. Earrings and pendants are the most popular styles to carry every day. Rings and bracelets are great to consider for occasional wear.
How Does Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Compare to Other Orange Stones?
Sourced from Sri Lanka, Ratnapura hessonite garnet flaunts a lovely burnt orange akin to simmering lava. The gem possesses a brown undertone in all its colors that adds to its appealing warmth whereas gems like spessartine garnet, fire opal and varieties of citrine display a brighter hue and tone.
Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Properties
What Does Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Mean?
Garnet is said to help with treatment of blood circulation and strengthening of the heart.
It brings vitality and strengthens the memory. The gem is said to symbolize constructiveness.
Disclaimer: Use of any stone or mineral is not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment, and nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information provided should not be used to treat any illness, injury, medical condition, or ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health professional.
Is Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet a Birthstone?
Garnet is the official birthstone for January. The warm honey-like or molten-lava colors of Ratnapura hessonite garnet make an excellent selection over traditional red garnet.
Ratnapura Hessonite Garnet Facts
- Ranks 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
- Colors spans from honey-yellow to orange-brown to brown-red.
- Sourced from Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka.
- Hessonite garnet undergoes no additional treatment.
- May also be known as cinnamon stone or cinnamon garnet.