mineral

Garnet (Almandine/Pyrope series)

Silicate mineral (Almandine: Fe3Al2Si3O12; Pyrope: Mg3Al2Si3O12)

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to brownish-red (represented in image); Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 3.5–4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep red to brownish-red (represented in image)
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks (schists, gneisses) and some igneous rocks under high pressure and temperature. These specimens are found in deposits ranging from Precambrian to recent metamorphic belts.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (beads, faceted stones) and abrasives (sandpaper). It is also a popular collector's mineral and the birthstone for January.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age. The name 'garnet' comes from the Latin 'granatus' (grain), likely referring to the seeds of a pomegranate.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic dodecahedral crystal habit, its high hardness, and its lack of cleavage. Common locations include India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and parts of the United States like Arizona and Idaho.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

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Mineral/Rock

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