Metamorphic Process
The elements comprised in garnet go through a metamorphic process to create this gemstone. From a geologist's standpoint, that would mean the metamorphosis of a rock's mineral makeup and texture. This happens when a rock is exposed to altered temperatures that differ from the temperatures the rock was originally formed under, and tremendous pressure.
Element: Aluminum
We regularly use the element of aluminum in the form of tin foil. Aluminum, known by its periodic symbol "AL," is one of the common elements that make up garnet. It has the atomic number of 13 and its known for being malleable and flexible. Aluminum is recognized by is shiny, silver color. In garnet, when aluminum is combined with manganese, it creates brownish-scarlet red.
Element: Calcium
Calcium in its true form is also silvery but much harder than aluminum. It has the atomic number of 20, and is found in humans, animals and plant life. Calcium is also found in limestone, which is where it derives its name, from the latin word for lime, "calcis." The combination of calcium and chromium forms a beautiful emerald green garnet.
Element: Magnesium
As the eighth-most abundantly occurring element in the universe, magnesium holds the atomic number 12 and can be found in the Earth's crust. Magnesium-aluminum garnet, with traces of calcium and iron, forms deep-red-to-black-colored stones. These colors are the easiest to find and are quite prominent in fashion.
Element: Chromium
Chromium is commonly paired with calcium to form the rare green types of garnets. Like many metals, chromium has a steel-grey color and is somewhat iridescent.
Element: Iron
Iron is widely used today for a variety of purposes. On the periodic table this element is referred to as "Fe" and holds the atomic number of 26. Iron is strong and solid; it's also one of the most easily found metals on earth, making it inexpensive and popular. Iron-aluminum garnet produces brownish reds to opaque stones.
Element: Manganese
The last element found in the make-up of certain garnets has the atomic number of 25 and is called Manganese ("Mn"). It is a hard, brittle metal with a gray color and hints of pink.