mineral

Garnet (likely Almandine)

Almandine (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red, brownish-red to black; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.5–4.3

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

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like mica schists and gneisses through high pressure and temperature; can also be found in igneous rocks and as alluvial grains. These specimens can range from millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as an abrasive in sandblasting and water-jet cutting; transparent, high-quality stones are used as gemstones in jewelry; also a popular mineral for student and entry-level collections.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. Almandine is the most common variety of the garnet group. Some garnets exhibit a star effect (asterism) due to rutile inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'soccer ball' shape (12-sided dodecahedron) and deep reddish-brown color. Frequently found in mica schists in the Northeastern US, India, Brazil, and Madagascar. Collectors should look for sharp crystal faces and translucency.

Other mineral specimens

See all

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