HESSONITE
Hessonite, a rare variety of grossular garnet, has seduced since antiquity with its warm hues ranging from soft orange to golden brown. Less famous than red garnet, it is no less precious and sought-after, particularly in India, where it is nicknamed "cinnamon stone" because of its spice-like color. Its name comes from the Greek hessonmeaning "inferior", not in value, but in density compared with other garnets. For centuries, Hessonite has been associated with self-confidence, prosperity and inner fulfillment.
GEM TYPE
ROUGH GARNET
FAMILY
GRENATS
COLOR(S)
LIGHT ORANGE / BROWN
MOHS SCALE
6.5 - 7.5
GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN

Tanzania
India
Brazil
Sri Lanka
The finest traditional specimens
Madagascar

A little history
In India, Hessonite is known as Gomed and occupies an important place in Vedic tradition. It is associated with Rahu, one of the celestial bodies of Hindu astrology, and is worn to balance its influences, bringing success, prosperity and inner peace. Historically, Indian merchants wore Hessonites as talismans to promote fortune and protect their businesses. Specimens of Hessonite have also been found in ancient Greco-Roman jewelry, testifying to its ancient use in Mediterranean civilizations.
LITHOTHERAPY
In serious lithotherapy, Hessonite is recognized for its properties related to self-assurance and creative energy: