mineral

Garnet (likely Almandine or Pyrope)

Garnet Group (Fe3Al2Si3O12 or Mg3Al2Si3O12)

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 Mohs. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple/black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5–4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple/black
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified April 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 Mohs. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple/black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5–4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed under high temperatures and pressures in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks. Found in geological formations ranging from Precambrian to recent.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, rings, pendants), as an industrial abrasive for sandblasting and waterjet cutting, and for geological thermobarometry.

Geological facts

Garnet is the traditional birthstone for January. Throughout history, it was often called 'carbuncle' and was believed to light up the night and protect travelers from evil.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic dodecahedral crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and high hardness. Common locations include India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA (New York/Idaho).

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