Dahl Jewelers, Woodbridge, VA
Rhodolite, Rhodolites
One tends to think of garnet as a deep red-violet stone; and, many persons are surprised to learn that this gemstone comes in a range of different colors.
In reality, there are basically six major types of stone that make up the garnet family. One of the loveliest is rhodolite.
Rhodolite falls between pyrope and almandite garnets. Its color is violet-red to purple that can sometimes be confused with amethyst. Compared to other garnets, good quality rhodolite is scarce and, consequently, expensive.
Since it is a true garnet, all of the attributes credited to garnets also hold true for rhodolite. Or, you may simply wear a rhodolite garnet as the birthstone of January.
Rhodolite, like other garnets were believed to have great curative powers that were especially effective against fevers. The wearer was supposed to be guaranteed good health and protection in his travels.
Rhodolite was reportedly used by the American Indians. The Muslims believed that they illuminated the fourth heaven, while Christians felt that the red gem symbolized the sacrifice Christ made for mankind.
Rhodolite garnet comes from two Greek words: rhodon, meaning "rose" and
lithos which means "stone."
Description of Rhodolite Qualities That We Sell
High quality: A very fine raspberry color. Very well cut, eye clean and lively.
Medium quality: A fine purple/pink color with some brown overtones. Good cut and mostly eye clean. The more included the stone, then the closer the color our high quality.
Please check here for a note about colored gemstone qualities.
Rhodolite Properties
Birthstone: January (alternate)
Hardness: 7 to 7.5
Toughness: Fair
Specific gravity: 3.84 (+/- .10)
Refractive index: 1.76
Main sources: Africa
Treatment: Not currently know to be enhanced.
Reaction to heat: Fair to poor, sudden heat may cause fracture.
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