mineral

Red Garnet (Almandine-Pyrope series)

Garnet Group, Almandine (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3) or Pyrope (Mg3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5 - 7.5 Mohs scale; Color: Deep red, reddish-brown, or violet-red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 3.5 - 4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep red, reddish-brown, or violet-red
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified April 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature; also found in certain igneous rocks like peridotite. They are common in ancient continental crust.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as gemstones in jewelry. Industrial uses include abrasive blasting, waterjet cutting, and water filtration media due to its hardness.

Geological facts

Garnet is the official birthstone for January. It was highly popular in Roman jewelry and was often carved into intaglios. Unlike many other gemstones, garnets are rarely treated with heat or chemicals to enhance color.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct crystal shape (dodecahedrons), lack of cleavage, and high density. Found globally, with major deposits in India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and the USA (Idaho and New York).

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