mineral

Garnet (likely Almandine)

Almandine - Fe3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.1–4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep red to brownish-red
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.1–4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed most commonly in regional metamorphic environments where shale or clay-rich rocks are subjected to high pressure and heat. Found in schists and gneisses.

Uses & applications

Common industrial use as an abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting); gem-quality specimens are used in jewelry; also a popular mineral for student and entry-level collections.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. The name 'garnet' comes from the Latin 'granatus', meaning seed-like, due to its resemblance to pomegranate seeds. Almandine is the most common variety of the garnet group.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct crystal shape (12-sided dodecahedrons), deep red color, and high hardness (it will scratch glass). Commonly found in metamorphic belts globally, such as the Appalachian or Himalayan mountains.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral