The name 'garnet' comes from the Latin word 'Garanatus', meaning seedlike, in reference to a pomegranate. This reference makes sense as small garnets look like the bright red seeds you find inside in a pomegranate. In medieval times, the stones were thought to cure depression, protect against bad dreams, and relieve diseases of the liver. According to legend, Noah used a finely cut, glowing garnet to illuminate the ark during those dark wet days and nights. In ancient and medieval times, garnets were worn to enhance bodily strength, endurance and vigor. There are many beliefs in the power garnet has over the not just physical health, but mental health as well. Garnet's virtues have been long believed to include passion, true friendship, fidelity, success, self-esteem, loyalty, devotion, energy, faith, consistency, and truth. Garnet has been believed to be extremely beneficial in the realm of business as well. The stone causes people to be attracted to the wearer, which aids in business, as well as in personal success.
