Garnet, amethyst, and lab-created aqua spinel each hold a place as Avery birthstones, representing January, February, and March respectively. These gemstones, while distinct in their geological origins, color palettes, and historical associations, share a common thread: their enduring appeal in jewelry and their symbolic significance across cultures. This article will delve into the history, geological sources, gemological properties, and care of these three captivating gemstones, as understood through the lens of James Avery’s gemstone selection and expertise.
History and Lore
Garnet boasts a rich history stretching back to ancient civilizations. Its use dates to 3100 B.C. in the Nile Delta, where Egyptian artisans fashioned the gemstone into beads and incorporated it into intricate jewelry. Legend associates garnet with illumination, with tales claiming it could light up the night sky and even served as a lamp on Noah’s Ark. The name “garnet” itself originates from the ancient Greeks, who likened the gem’s color to the seeds of the pomegranate – granatum in Latin.
Amethyst’s history is equally compelling, deeply intertwined with royalty and religious symbolism. Treasured by kings and emperors, amethyst was often considered the color of royalty and, at times, even more valuable than diamonds. Its association with bishops, who wore amethyst to symbolize triumph over worldly vices, earned it the moniker “the Bishop’s Stone.” The darker hues of amethyst were often left unenhanced, prized for their natural intensity.
Aqua spinel, specifically the lab-created variety recognized by James Avery, carries a history rooted in both natural spinel and modern gemological innovation. Natural spinel, historically found in Myanmar (Burma) and Sri Lanka, was once called the “daughter of ruby,” admired for its beauty yet distinct character. The Crown Jewels of Great Britain are graced with spinels, demonstrating the gem’s historical importance in royal regalia. The lab-created version allows for consistent quality and availability, continuing the spinel tradition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Garnets are primarily sourced from the East Coast of Africa, with smaller deposits found in the United States and the Czech Republic. The specific geological conditions leading to garnet formation are not detailed in the provided sources, but the gem’s presence in these regions indicates specific metamorphic or igneous processes.
Amethyst, a variety of quartz, is found in Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and various regions of Africa. Its formation is linked to the presence of iron impurities within quartz crystals, resulting in its characteristic purple hues. The sources suggest that some amethyst varieties respond well to heat enhancement, while darker shades are often left untreated.
Aqua spinel, as a lab-created gemstone, does not originate from natural geological processes. However, natural spinel is found in Myanmar (Burma) and Sri Lanka. The lab-created version replicates the properties of natural spinel, offering a consistent and ethical alternative.
Gemological Properties
James Avery Jewelry prioritizes three qualities when selecting gemstones: beauty, rarity, and durability. These qualities are reflected in the gemological properties of garnet, amethyst, and aqua spinel.
Garnet: Garnet ranks 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, indicating good durability for jewelry use. The garnets used by James Avery typically exhibit red-violet to red-brown coloration.
Amethyst: Amethyst, also a variety of quartz, ranks 7 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. It displays a range of purple shades, from pale lilac to deep purple. The sources indicate that darker hues are rarely enhanced, while some varieties benefit from heat treatment.
Aqua Spinel: Aqua spinel, ranking 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, demonstrates excellent durability. It is a durable gemstone that comes in a variety of colors including oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves and vivid reds. Lab-created spinel has been available since the 1920s.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Color Range | Enhancement Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garnet | 7 - 7.5 | Red-violet to red-brown | Not specified |
| Amethyst | 7 | Pale lilac to deep purple | Heat enhancement |
| Aqua Spinel | 8 | Oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves, vivid reds | N/A (Lab-created) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While the provided sources do not extensively detail the metaphysical beliefs associated with these gemstones, they hint at symbolic meanings. Garnet’s association with illumination and Noah’s Ark suggests a connection to guidance and protection. Amethyst’s link to royalty and bishops implies themes of power, spirituality, and overcoming temptation. Spinel, historically adorning crown jewels, embodies prestige and enduring value.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these gemstones. Garnet requires no specific cleaning instructions beyond general jewelry care. Amethyst should be protected from direct sunlight and extreme or prolonged heat to prevent damage and fading. Aqua spinel, being a durable gemstone, requires no special care.
Lepidolite, Aventurine, Prasiolite, Quartzite, Agate, Alexandrite, Amazonite, Apatite, Mother-of-Pearl, Peridot, and Ruby are also mentioned in the sources, but lack sufficient detail for a comprehensive discussion. Lepidolite and Aventurine are wax or polymer stabilized and should be protected from harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and strong pressure. Apatite should also be protected from chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme heat. Quartzite should be protected from chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, direct sunlight, and extreme heat. Agate should be protected from chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and strong light. Alexandrite is a color-changing variety of chrysoberyl and ranks 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Amazonite should be protected from chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and strong light. Peridot, existing only in green, should be protected from extreme heat.
Carat Weight and Size Considerations
The sources highlight that carat weight is a measure of a gemstone’s weight, but its physical size varies depending on the gemstone’s density. A one-carat topaz will be smaller than a one-carat peridot due to topaz’s higher density. Gemstone sizes are typically given in carat weight or millimeters. The provided sources include an approximate weight chart for various gemstone shapes, though the exact size varies by gemstone type. Factors influencing price include shape, cut, clarity, and color.
James Avery’s Gemstone Philosophy
James Avery Artisan Jewelry emphasizes the selection of gemstones based on beauty, rarity, and durability. The company does not use imitation or artificial gemstones, prioritizing natural, enhanced, and lab-created stones of the highest quality. Their vertically integrated approach, with over 90% of pieces crafted in Texas, ensures quality control and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Garnet, amethyst, and aqua spinel represent a diverse yet harmonious selection of Avery birthstones. Each gemstone carries a unique history, geological origin, and gemological profile, contributing to their enduring appeal. From the ancient Egyptians’ use of garnet to the royal associations of amethyst and the modern innovation of lab-created aqua spinel, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire. James Avery’s commitment to quality, durability, and beauty ensures that these birthstones will be cherished for generations to come.