I hand pick every one of my Garnets, looking for good color (I hate prune juice looking stones), good clarity, and a medium darkness.  I prefer light to be able to get in, bounce around a little, pop right out and zap you with color.  If they get too dark, they just don't have "life".  Of course, if YOU prefer a darker stone, I'll get one for you -- no extra cost.  I know I'm not the last word on what's pretty -- you are!