Garnet and White Topaz Sterling Silver Pendant

Birthstone for January

The garnet group is a large family of minerals, usually found in metamorphic rocks. Garnets are generally found as well developed crystals in a cubic crystal form. The 15 garnet species all have a common formula of A₃B₂(SiO₄)₃, where A can be calcium, iron, magnesium, or manganese and B can be aluminum, iron, chromium, manganese, silicon, titanium, zirconium, or vanadium. Metaphysically, garnets are used for passion and energy. Fine specimens of garnets can be found in Brazil, China, USA, and India.

Topaz

November Birthstone

Topaz occurs in a variety of colors, the most well-known being imperial (golden-yellow sherry) topaz, blue topaz and pink topaz. Blue topaz can occur naturally but is typically pale. Natural pink stones are rare, though yellow topaz from Brazil turns pink when heated. Topaz sheds light on “the path,” enabling one to “be” rather than “do.” Notable localities for gem-quality topaz include Brazil, Russia, Nigeria, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Mexico, Colorado, Texas and California.