Spessartine garnet is, as the name indicates, a member of the garnet family, which is well known for its beautiful red and orange crystals. Though it was once incredibly rare, it has recently been found in abundance in many parts of the world, including China, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Though still not as easy to find as many other minerals, it is becoming increasingly prevalent in the marketplace, and more and more people are snatching it up to add to their collections.
Also referred to simply as spessartine, this beautiful crystal is said to carry a strong vibration that can lift one’s mood and improve how they feel overall. It is also thought that, metaphysically, this stone can aid in creativity and help with manifestation. It is good for the brain, too, and carries a wide range of healing properties.
Spessartine is a beautiful stone to add to any collection – regardless of whether you are interested in the metaphysical properties of crystals. And since it has now become more widely available than ever before, bringing it home is easy. Keep reading to learn more about spessartine.
Spessartine History
Also known as the garnet of the sun, spessartine is one of the rarer and lesser-known crystals in the garnet family. Originally, it was called a manganesian garnet in 1823 by Henry Seybert. In 1832, however, François Sulpice Beudant named it spessartine garnet in honor of the Spessart Mountains of Bavaria, Germany, which is this mineral’s type locality.
Up until 1991, gem-quality specimens of spessartine were quite rare. That year, however, they were located in northern Namibia at the Kombat Mine. Since then, high-quality specimens have been found in several other places. Today, some of the most beautiful specimens come from Fujian Province, China. This is where Crystal Allies sources its spessartine garnet crystals from.
Spessartine Physical Properties
Spessartine is a manganese aluminum silicate. Oftentimes, however, the manganese in these crystals is replaced by iron and magnesium. It most frequently forms in trapezohedral crystals, which are often quite well developed. Less often, it may form in dodecahedral crystals or even in combinations with both trapezohedral and dodecahedral crystals. It has also been discovered in grainy aggregates, crystal clusters, and in massive or drusy forms. It can also occur as veins in host igneous or metamorphic rock.
Sometimes called Mandarin garnet, this crystal is most famous for its brilliant orange color. It can, however, form in several other colors, including brown, red, brownish-red, red, pink, yellow, yellowish-brown, gray, or black. Multicolored red and black specimens have also been found. The orange variety is the most valuable because they are the purest. Regardless of the color of the stone, spessartine has a clear streak.
This mineral ranges from transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. With a rating of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, so it is a relatively durable stone. Transparent specimens are often cut into gemstones and used as jewelry. Because of their hardness, they work well or this application and hold up well to regular use.
Spessartine Metaphysical Properties
Spessartine garnet is prized just as much for its metaphysical properties as it is for its beauty. Associated with the sacral and solar plexus chakras, it is believed to awaken creative abilities and strengthen one’s willpower. It has a warm, empowering energy that strengthens the heart, too, and encourages one to do good things for others. It is an incredible tool for writers, dancers, artists, actors, and others who work in creative fields. Working with this stone can also encourage you to take action and work toward achieving your goals and dreams.
This crystal provides healing using the colors and rays of the sun. These colors also attract many angels. Garnet serves as the traditional birthstone for those born in January, and the spessartine variety is considered a natural birthstone for people born from mid-summer through mid-fall. It also serves as the zodiac stone for people who were born under the astrological sign of Aquarius.
Spessartine Healing Properties
Spessartine is believed to provide powerful physical and emotional healing. Physically. It is said to benefit both the female and male reproductive systems. It increases libido and enhances fertility. It is also sometimes used to treat problems involving the bladder and kidneys. It is also thought that this stone can treat Reynaud’s disease and poor circulation. It may help with food intolerances, too, especially those to dairy and wheat products. This crystal is also believed to strengthen the immune system, heart, and small intestine.
Emotionally, spessartine garnet acts as a natural antidepressant. This crystal’s powerful energy stimulates feelings of happiness and joy from within, and working with it can make life seem more fulfilling. It can also help you talk about difficult and embarrassing things. It instills confidence and alleviates the fear of failure. If you want to make big changes in your life, working with spessartine garnet can give you the strength and courage you need to embark on new paths. This stone will also encourage you to become a more intuitive, spontaneous, and impulsive person.
How to Use Spessartine
Spessartine is an excellent crystal to use during meditation. If you feel like you are in need of an energetic or emotional boost, simply hold it in your hand and focus on its powerful vibrations. This crystal can also be worn as jewelry or carried as a pocket stone with very little risk of damage.
This crystal is a beautiful one to place in your environment, too. A medium to large-sized specimen would look lovely in any home or office and will enable you to experience its benefits on a constant basis. If you place it in your bedroom, it can even help keep nightmares at bay. At Crystal Allies, we stock high-quality spessartine garnet specimens from Fujian Province, China, and would love to help you add this beautiful crystal to your collection. Shop our online store today to find a piece that calls to you.
NOTE: All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.