The gem takes its name from Emperor Alexander II of Russia, the Geological Institute of America reports. Its red and green colors were similar to the national military colors of imperial Russia.

Becky Stone writes about jewelry styles for INSTORE. She is founder and CEO of well-known jewelry blog Diamonds in the Library. Retirement can be a great part of life. As Nanji Singadia puts it, “I ...

green, purple, blue and yellow. A garnet's color depends on its chemical composition, according tothe International Gem Society. For instance, almandine garnets range from deep red to purple.