Malaya garnet is a unique and striking variety of garnet, known for its range of colors, from vibrant orange to pinkish-red hues. It is a blend of two different garnet species, pyrope and spessartine, which results in its unusual color palette. The name "Malaya" comes from the Swahili word for "freedom" or "rebel," referencing its discovery in East Africa, where it was first found in the late 20th century.

Malaya garnets typically have a bright, warm tone, and can range from a rich, deep reddish-orange to a lighter, more pastel pinkish-orange. They are highly valued for their beautiful and lively color, which can change slightly depending on the light. These garnets are often cut into various shapes, and their brilliance and clarity make them popular in fine jewelry.

In terms of physical properties, Malaya garnet has a hardness of about 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for use in everyday jewelry. They also have good transparency and excellent brilliance.

Malaya garnet is often considered a symbol of vitality, energy, and creativity, and it is thought to have some metaphysical properties, such as promoting emotional balance and encouraging self-confidence.