Closely associated with the powers of elemental Earth and Fire, Garnet is known as a stone of passion and courage. Garnet is said to be a favourite stone of Dragons in various mythologies. When used in magic it is said that the crystal draws on the Dragon's protective powers and helps its owner to communicate with these fabulous beasts and learn some of their secrets.

Natural, unpolished nuggets of Garnet are not very pretty, but they are powerful. They symbolize the awesome energy of raw, untamed magic and are ideal for spells and rituals where you need to draw on high concentrations of power.

In ancient Egypt Garnet was sacred to the Goddess Isis, and was said to be formed from drops of her menstrual blood that fell on the dry earth. Menstrual blood was believed to be the source of fertility and new life and the key to women's magic and spirituality. Wearing Garnet was believed to bring a person under the influence of the Mistress of Magic and help them to pass between the worlds with ease. In later mythology Garnet was renowned as a stone of illumination and revelation.

Garnet establishes and activates the connection between your root chakra and the Earth, helping you to draw on the Earth's vast reserves of power to heal or energize yourself. Some healers believe that Garnet stirs the blood, improves circulation and wards off depression, encouraging physical and magical regeneration.

Garnet can give you the stamina and strength to keep your mind focussed on your goals and see a long, complex spell or project through to the end. Because of its ancient association with the God Mars, Garnet can be used to help anyone who uses metal, including farmers, ironmongers, smiths, soldiers, surgeons, jewellers and craftspeople. Keeping a piece of Garnet near you when you work is said to ensure inspiration, prosperity and abundance.