Garnet, the birthstone for January is often associated with a burgundy color. However this semi-precious gem stone can range from red, green and orange.
“Some garnet can display star effect, cat’s-eye effect or color change from bluish-gree in light to purplish-red in incandescent light. An interesting fact is the a perfect garnet crystal has been found as an inclusion in a natural diamond.” Sally Spencer The Jewellers’ quick reference guide to working with gemstones.
Garnet can be found growing in mica. Recently I was rock hunting on the North Shore here on Long Island. I found what I suspect was a very tiny garnet growing in a glacial boulder. It was a thrilling!
