In the mysterious and intriguing cosmos of gemstones, Hessonite stone is undeniably the most undervalued yet one of the most pivotal gemstones. Also known as gomed stone, Hessonite is an integral variety of the garnet family and is widely recognized for its mesmerizing range of colors varying from golden yellow to brownish red.
Though original gomed stones are far less valuable than precious stones like sapphires and red rubies, they enjoy a status equal to precious stones in the domain of astrology. Hessonite stone embodies the planet Rahu which is also known as the shadow planet in Astrology. It is primarily worn to suppress the ill effects of Rahu and render the coveted results in life.
Not everyone can afford the highest quality natural hessonite stone which is the substitute of hessonite are recommended by astrologers. The prime purpose of jotting down this blog post is to make our valued readers conversant with the best possible gomed stone substitutes they can consider to derive benefits similar to an original hessonite stone. Before we hop on to know the substitutes for hessonite stone, let’s go through some general information first.
Table of Contents
Physical Properties & Characteristics of Hessonite
| Property | Details |
| Chemical Formula | Ca₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃ |
| Color | Honey-yellow, orange, reddish-brown |
| Crystal System | Cubic |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Specific Gravity | Approximately 3.61 – 3.65 |
| Refractive Index | 1.74 – 1.75 |
| Luster | Vitreous to resinous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal to uneven |
| Streak | White |
| Optical Properties | Single refractive, often exhibits a ‘fire’ similar to that of diamonds |
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General Characteristics
Hessonite garnet is a fascinating and attractive gemstone, highly prized for its unique colors and brilliance. It is a member of the garnet family, but it distinguishes itself with its distinct colors and the way it interacts with light. The stone can range in color from a deep orange to a brownish red, which is where it gets its nickname, “cinnamon stone.” The most desirable hessonite stones have a bright orange color with a hint of red.
In terms of its use, hessonite is popular in jewelry, especially in rings, necklaces, and earrings. It is believed to have various metaphysical properties, such as promoting financial prosperity, clarity, and well-being, making it a favorite among those who follow astrological or healing traditions.
The gemstone’s unique internal structure often creates a swirling, treacle-like visual effect known as ‘heat wave’ or ‘whisky in water effect,’ which is not seen in other types of garnet. This effect, combined with its color and brightness, makes hessonite a particularly sought-after gemstone among collectors and gem enthusiasts.
Hessonite is relatively durable but can be scratched or damaged if not handled with care. It’s suitable for everyday wear but should be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Cleaning should be done using warm soapy water and a soft brush.
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Which Gemstones Are Substitutes of Hessonite (Gomed)?
Orange Zircon
Orange zircon is the best and the most captivating substitute for the original hessonite garnet. This durable gem is not only readily available but also comes in a delightful array of colors, making it a versatile choice for jewelry enthusiasts as well.
With a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, orange zircon is a resilient gem that can withstand the rigors of daily wear. Its various hues make it a suitable replacement for different precious stones, with the warm and vibrant orange variety serving as a stunning alternative to the fiery hessonite garnet. Remarkably, orange zircon possesses properties akin to its garnet counterpart.
According to ancient beliefs, wearing orange zircon as a hessonite garnet substitute is thought to strengthen the influence of Rahu in one’s astrological chart, mitigating its adverse effects. It is also believed to aid in the healing of ailments and provide relief from mental distress.
These enchanting zircons often hail from the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka and the vast expanse of East Africa. Their shimmering colors and alluring luster make them ideal for color therapy, as their radiant hues are said to have a profound impact on various aspects of well-being.
It’s important to note that natural zircon is distinct from cubic zirconia, a synthetic gemstone. While cubic zirconia is a man-made creation, natural zircon is a geological marvel, formed deep within the Earth’s crust over eons. For astrological purposes, the preference lies with the authentic natural zircon, as it is believed to hold the true essence of the gem.
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Spessartite
Spessartine, often referred to as spessartite, stands as an exceptional alternative to the hessonite gemstone. With a Mohs hardness rating ranging from 6.5 to 7.5, this gemstone not only shares a similar appearance with its garnet counterpart but is also a member of the same family. What sets spessartine apart from the rest is its rarity and value, eclipsing that of hessonite garnet. This gemstone is cherished for its vivid orange hue, radiant luster, and remarkable transparency, making it highly sought after in the gem market.
Renowned for its vibrant energy, spessartine is believed to be a powerful stone for enhancing self-confidence, bolstering strength, and promoting healing. Its rich color spectrum also makes it a favored choice in color therapy, offering its wearers a sense of relaxation and tranquility. For those looking to harness the benefits of hessonite garnet, spessartine serves as an ideal substitute, mirroring the former’s properties, including the governing planet, methods of wear, activation procedures, and more.
Celebrated by the moniker “Mandarin garnet” due to its striking color, spessartine has its roots in diverse locations around the globe, including Tanzania, China, and Pakistan. This connectivity to various cultures and geographies only adds to its allure, making it a gemstone of choice for those seeking both beauty and holistic benefits.
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