mineral

Pyrope Garnet

Magnesium aluminum silicate (Mg3Al2Si3O12)

Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Blood red to dark red/black, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 3.5-3.8

Hardness: 7-7

Identified April 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Blood red to dark red/black, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 3.5-3.8

Formation & geological history

Formed under high pressure in the upper mantle. Often found in ultra-high-pressure metamorphic rocks like eclogites and peridotites, or in igneous rocks like kimberlites.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry. Industrial applications include abrasives (waterjet cutting, sandblasting) and filtration media.

Geological facts

Pyrope's name comes from the Greek word 'pyropos', meaning 'fire-eyed', due to its intense red color. It is the only garnet always found in ultramafic rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its lack of cleavage, high density, and deep red color without brown/orange undertones (typical of Almandine). Found in alluvial deposits and kimberlite pipes (e.g., South Africa, Czech Republic, Arizona).

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