The garnet is actually a group of several minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age as gemstones and abrasives. There are six common garnet minerals – and several other rare species. The most common garnets are  almandine, andradite, grossular, pyrope, spessartine and uvarovite The name “garnet” comes from 14th century Middle English word gernet meaning ‘dark red’,

October babies have the pleasure of enjoying two birthstones to commemorate their birthdays – tourmaline and opal. Last time we wrote about pink tourmaline, and now we’re going to share with you about opal.

September’s birthstone is one of our favorite gemstones at GIA –sapphire. Sapphires have been long associated with royalty and romance (hence the engagement ring of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and The Royal Couple – William and Katherine!).