The key difference between garnet and gomed is that garnet refers to a diverse family of minerals, including types such as almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and andradite, whereas gomed refers to a specific variety of grossular garnet.
Garnet and gomed (hessonite) are two distinct gemstones, each with its unique characteristics. Gomed is a specific type or variety of garnet.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Garnet
3. What is Gomed
4. Similarities – Garnet and Gomed
5. Garnet vs. Gomed in Tabular Form
6. FAQ – Garnet and Gomed
7. Summary – Garnet vs. Gomed
What is Garnet?
Garnet is a gemstone belonging to a diverse family of minerals with similar crystal structures but different chemical compositions. Various types of garnets, including almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and andradite, exhibit unique characteristics.
Known for its colors, such as red, green, orange, yellow, brown, and pink, garnet is valued for its aesthetic appeal. Red garnets, specifically almandine and pyrope varieties, are widely recognized. With a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, garnet is durable, making it suitable for different jewelry applications, including rings, necklaces, and earrings.
The name “garnet” is derived from the Latin word “granatum,” meaning pomegranate, due to the gemstone’s resemblance to the seeds of this fruit. Throughout history, garnets have been associated with symbolic meanings, believed to promote qualities like strength and protection.
What is Gomed?
Gomed, also known as Hessonite or “cinnamon stone,” belongs to the grossular variety with the chemical formula Ca3Al2Si3O12. The name “Hessonite” is derived from the Ancient Greek word ἣσσων (hēssōn), meaning inferior, alluding to its lower hardness and density compared to most other garnet species. Its characteristic red color, often leaning towards orange or yellow, resembles that of zircon. Hessonite is similar to quartz, scoring about 7 on the Mohs scale, whereas most garnet species have a hardness closer to 7.5.
Gomed is primarily sourced from Sri Lanka and India, commonly found in placer deposits, although occurrences in their native matrix are not unheard of. The gemstone has also been discovered in Brazil and California. Its unique characteristics, both in terms of aesthetics and mineral properties, make Gomed a notable member of the garnet family, valued for its distinct appearance and astrological associations.
Gomed holds significance in Indian astrology, particularly Vedic astrology, where it is associated with the shadow planet Rahu. People often wear Gomed as a gemstone to address astrological concerns related to Rahu, believing it can positively influence various aspects of life, including career and health.
What is the Similarity Between Garnet and Gomed?
- Garnet and gomed belong to the broader category of garnet minerals, with chemical compositions that include elements like aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.
What is the Difference Between Garnet and Gomed?
Garnet refers to a diverse family of minerals, including types such as almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and andradite, whereas gomed is a specific variety of grossular garnet. Thus, this is the key difference between garnet and gomed. Moreover, garnets come in a range of colors, including red, green, orange, yellow, brown, and pink, whereas gomed is characterized by a brownish-orange to reddish-brown color. Gomed is linked to the planet Rahu in Vedic astrology and is believed to have astrological benefits when worn.
Below is a summary of the difference between garnet and gomed in tabular form for side by side comparison.
FAQ: Garnet and Gomed
What is the other name of Gomed stone?
The other name for Gomed stone is Hessonite.
Is Gomed stone the same as garnet?
Gomed and garnet are not the same. Gomed is a specific type or variety of garnet, distinguished by its brownish-orange to reddish-brown color.
Does garnet bring luck?
Garnets are viewed as protective stones, worn to safeguard and balance the wearers, promoting a grounded feeling. Beyond protection, this captivating gemstone is believed to bring love, luck, health, loyalty, and friendship to those who wear it.
Summary – Garnet vs. Gomed
The key difference between garnet and gomed is that garnet refers to a diverse family of minerals, including types such as almandine, pyrope, spessartine, and andradite, whereas gomed refers to a specific variety of grossular garnet.
Reference:
Image Courtesy:
1. “Hessonite Garnet” By the justified sinner (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED) via Flickr
2. “Cut garnet collection” By Humanfeather / Michelle Jo – Own work (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia