mineral

Rhodolite Garnet

Magnesium Aluminum Silicate; formula: (Mg,Fe)3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Rose-pink to raspberry-red or purplish-red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 3.7-3.9

Hardness: 7-7
Color: Rose-pink to raspberry-red or purplish-red
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks or in certain igneous environments. It is a varietal mix of Pyrope and Almandine garnet. Geological ages vary by deposit from Archean to Tertiary.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings). Also historically used as an industrial abrasive due to its hardness, though gem-quality specimens like this are reserved for lapidary use.

Geological facts

The name 'Rhodolite' comes from the Greek word 'rhodon' meaning rose. Unlike many other red gemstones, it is rarely treated with heat or chemicals to enhance color. It was first identified in the United States in North Carolina in the late 1890s.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct purplish-red hue (lacking the brownish secondary tones of common almandine), high refractive index resulting in high brilliance, and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe.

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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)]

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Epidote

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

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