How To Identify Rough Star Garnets

Garnets are frequently associated with the color red, but the truth is that they are found in every color except for blue. Garnets are found in many places across the globe and are commonly used for jewelry. One of the most elusive forms of the gem is called the star garnet. This brilliant gem is usually hand cut, so as not to destroy the beautiful rays that branch out across the gem like a "star." Typically gems are altered to fit jewelry, however in the case of star garnets, jewelry is altered to fit them.

Instructions

1. Consider the location where the gem was found. Star garnets are extremely rare and are most abundantly found in Idaho, though they are also found in India.

2. Check the color. Most star garnets look almost black, and change to a deep reddish purple when put in sunlight.

3. Check for rays. Star garnets will have four or six rays that can be difficult to see when they are not calibrated, though with some star garnets the rays will appear on top.

4. Take it to a jeweler. If you are still not sure it is a star garnet, a professional will be able to help you identify it.

Tips & Warnings

• While most star garnets appear a deep reddish purple, in rare cases they will be red in the sun. The rays will be weak on these gems.

• Four ray star garnets are much more common that six ray star garnets.

References

• Consumer Guides: Jewelry Guides - Precious Stones and Metals
• SSEF: Publications
• Minerals - N - More: Idaho Star Garnets