If you are a true gemstone lover, there is no way garnet has not been on your wishlist. The color spectrum ranging from graceful greens to pretty pink to ravishing red makes it one of the most popular names in the gem industry. Nonetheless, it’s only fair to give this unique jewel the attention it deserves if you know whether or not the garnet can go in the water.
Many of you think- why would we need to know that?
It is a valid question. Well, you should understand that the chemical structure of a gemstone determines how it interacts with water. Knowing your gemstone’s relationship with water allows you to care for it more meticulously. You will be able to create a more stone-friendly maintenance plan and thereby enjoy the beauty of the stone for many years to come. Who wouldn’t want that?
Before going into the details, let’s get to know your stone first-
So, what is a garnet?
Taking its name from the medieval Latin ‘granatus,’ which means pomegranate (refers to the stone’s most popular color), Garnet tops the list of famous gemstones and is a member of the silicate mineral group with the chemical formula X3Y2(SiO4)3. Garnet species include almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and others.
Let’s jump into the main subject now- is your garnet a water baby?
Can Garnet Go in the Water?
Yes, but it is not recommended! While garnet won’t get affected by a small amount of water, submerging it for an extended period can cause irreversible damage. This damage can manifest itself in two ways:
Structural Damage
Yes, it can go in the water, but like other gemstones, not for a very long time. It has a Mohs hardness value of 6.0-7.5, which is significantly higher than the lower limit needed for minerals to be secured underwater. However, as with all stones, they should not be immersed for a prolonged time because water can impact their structure and tarnish their aesthetic.
This stunning stone surface, like other jewels, has several tiny fractures and cracks. Water molecules enter these fissures and gradually broaden them when submerged for a lengthy time, which may eventually result in stone breakage.
Physical Damage
Like all gemstones, garnet, a popular choice in red stone names, is also polished before setting it in statement jewelry. Unfortunately, water can wash away this polish. The resulting gemstone is uninteresting, which can depreciate from the piece’s overall aesthetic.
Also See: Garnet Stone Side Effects
Garnet and its Reaction to Various Types of Water
A gemstone’s chemical composition decides how it acts in the water. And believe us when we say that not all gems are appropriate for use in water because it makes. Acknowledging how your jewel reacts to various types of water will help you create a better maintenance schedule and foresee any damage.
Can Garnet Go to Salt Water?
No, you should not expose your prized garnet to salt water. Allow us to explain the science behind it. When you add salt to the water and dip your stone in it, salt enters the microscopic fissures on the stone’s surface.
Even after you remove your stone from the water and the remaining water dries up, the salt stays, eventually widening the cracks and hastening the corrosive effect. This process negatively affects the appearance of your stone.
Not only that, salt water can strip the gemstone of its polish and can jeopardize its visual beauty.
Can Garnet Go in Hot Water?
As a knowledgeable consumer, you should be aware that garnet is sensitive to temperature changes and heat. As a result, going in hot water is not advised, as it may cause discoloration and increase the stone’s fragility.
Can Garnet Go in Moon Water?
So first, you need to know what moon water is.
To make moon water, simply fill a container with water and keep it outside for the night. It’s best to choose a location that receives direct moonlight, and it is usually done during a full moon.
Yes, you can place garnet in moon water. Using the moon’s power for charging horoscope stones is quite a popular method, and it is safe for garnet. As already said, as with all stones, you should not soak them in water for an extended period.
Also See: Different Types of Garnet
How Does Water Impact Different Garnet Forms?
You have by now understood garnet’s relation with water. But is the same case with all its types also? Let’s figure that out.
Can Raw Garnet Go in Water?
Raw garnet is the form of garnet that has not been subjected to any enhancement process, treatment, or polishing. Even though garnet has a considerate rating on the Mohs hardness scale, making it almost water-safe, extended immersion in water is still not suggested.
Because these crude forms have no polish and treatment, the crystal is subjected to direct damage when immersed in water for too long, making it much more fragile and prone to breaking.
Can Garnet Crystal Go in Water?
Garnet crystals can be submerged in water because they have a Moh hardness rating of 6.5 to 7.5, making them ideal for submerging in water for a limited period. We will not advise water submersion for garnet crystals as water can enter fissures on the garnet surface and minimize the stone’s durability if left in it for days.
Also See: Jewelry Industry Statistics and Latest Trends 2023-24
How Long Can Garnet Go in the Water for Cleaning?
The best way to clean your garnet jewelry is to wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. However, if you observe a substantial amount of dirt and grime on your garnet accessory, you can dip it in water for a few minutes. When finished, use a lint-free cloth to remove the excess water from the stone and set it aside to air dry.
Can Garnet Go in Water to Cleanse?
If you want to amp up the potency of your garnet gemstone, you can do without water too. You can recharge it by placing it on top of a cluster of rock crystals, which will happily absorb all those negative vibes and imbue your garnet with an unending stream of love. You can also expose your garnet to sunlight for a short period to allow it to absorb its preferred energy.
Final Thoughts,
This blog has educated you about the garnet’s relationship with water. Now, you can confidently pick out the perfect raw gemstone engagement rings studded with stunning garnets, regardless of your preference or lifestyle. You know that it’s okay to immerse your garnet in water for a short time and how to clean it without water if necessary.
Their vibrant red hues will add a splash of color to your collection while lending themselves to any aesthetic. So go ahead: seize the moment and break out of your shell – let yourself be adorned with this timeless allure for life!
FAQs
Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this may cause your stunner to lose its color and sometimes result in breakage. Chemicals used in everyday items such as perfume, makeup products, and sprays may reduce the brilliance of your stone. To limit your stone’s exposure to these chemicals, remove it as soon as you return home from any event.
Furthermore, avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners on your garnet because these devices may be more harmful than beneficial.
Any vigorous exercise may harm the garnet stone as it can affect its surface, which may lead to breaking. As a result, it’s best to remove your piece before engaging in strenuous activities such as exercising, swimming, cleaning, and so on.
Garnets, like all gems, can be scratched when put with other stones. Enclose your stone in a soft, clean cloth and store it in a separate pouch or box to avoid this.
