A Treatise on Diamonds, and Precious Stones/Chapter 2/Section 6
SECT. VI.
Of the Garnet.
The color of the garnet varies from dark to light red or brown; the Syrian is considered the finest, and supposed to be the stone the ancients called the Carbuncle. It is always known by its peculiar color, and better by its great specific gravity. The finest varieties come from India, and some good specimens have been received from Greenland. When large, and free from flaws, they are worth from £2 to £5 or £6, and even more: but stones of this value are of rare occurrence, and always in demand.
Five garnets are never out of fashion, as they can always be worn in mourning. A century ago, a suit of them was considered a magnificent ornament for ladies of distinction. They are much worn in beads, both cut and plain.
Although in hardness the garnet is inferior to many of the gems before mentioned, still it receives a fine polish. On account of the intensity of its color, the table is made very large, and the facets are placed only on the bizel: the under side is frequently hollowed. Thus managed and set on shining foil, whether white or red, the garnet has deceived the purchaser, and has been sold for a better stone. Small garnets are often cut in rose.