GARNET

Many of the names of the various stones of the garnet family evolve from Geek nomenclature (litho-meaning stone in all of the gems ending in -lite, such as Rhodolite). This isn't the only relationship that Ancient Greece has had with relationship with garnet. The pomegranate, in very close relationship and symbol of garnet, is referenced in Greek myth. These references have given garnet some of it's legendary characteristics. The most notable reference where garnet is thought to be symbolized by a pomegranate,  involves Hades and Persephone. It is as follows: After Hades had abducted Persephone and taken  her down into the underworld, Zeus on the behalf

of Demeter, commanded him to release her. Zeus sent Hermes to ensure the safety of Persephone's passage. Hermes found Persephone seated next to Hades. Upon the sight of Hermes, Persephone was elated to be released from underworld. Hades knew he must head the command of his brother and had no choice but to let her go. Hades was eager to ensure her return. Before leaving, Hades gave, as a gift to Persephone, a pomegranate. She willingly accepted it and Hades knew that once she experienced the sweetness of the ripened seeds that she would return to him. In fact Persephone did return to Hades for three months of every year forever. Persephone's return caused the winter to arrive for the three month for which she remained with Hades. The pomegranate (and garnet) is associated with eternity in many Greek Myths. Many have associated the gift of the pomegranate seeds with the gift of fine garnet gems. It's meaning has given symbolism to garnet as a gift of love's attraction, a gift of quick return or as a gift of  estranged love. This myth gave partial rise to the belief that garnet is a stone for loved ones who travel and a crystal that can heal the broken bonds between lovers.