Gemstones - Background and Lore - Hessonite

Hessonite is a variety of garnet. It tends to be warm brownish yellows, brownish oranges, or brownish reds. Because of its color and historic connection with the spice producing country of Sri Lanka, the stone is also called the cinnamon stone. It is found in Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and the US. It rates a 7-7.5 on the Moh's hardness scale, and its toughness is considered fair to good. It can fracture if exposed to extreme temperature changes, and it is attacked by hydrofluoric acid. Never steam clean this stone as it may fracture. It is usually safe to clean ultrasonically, but it is safest to use warm soapy water and a toothbrush. Some alternatives to hessonite include almandite, citrine, fire opal, sapphire, spessartite, topaz, and zircon.

The use of this stone increases creativity and good use of the imagination. It may also serve to increase the level of self-confidence and reduce the propensity to be fearful. It can also increase the awareness of a person's subtle senses and increase ambition, which may also be for spiritual advancement.

Physically, it is said to help nervous disorders and such degenerative diseases as cancer. It may improve immune functions and counteract the harmful effects of radiation. Hessonite is said to help avert disasters and to protect against evil spirits. Supposedly it can prevent or avert insanity and protect from sudden misfortunes. It also has a reputation for giving great abilities in the sciences.