Almandine Garnet

Physical Properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep red, brownish-red, black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3.

Formation & Geological History

Formed in regional metamorphic environments, specifically in mica schists and gneisses deep within the Earth's crust under high pressure and temperature conditions.

Uses & Applications

Commonly used as an industrial abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting) due to its hardness. High-quality specimens are used in jewelry as gemstones (January birthstone).

Geological Facts

Garnets are a group of silicate minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age. Almandine is the most common member of the garnet group. The name comes from 'Alabanda', a city in Asia Minor where these stones were traditionally cut.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by high density, deep red color, and lack of cleavage. Found globally in metamorphic terranes such as the Adirondack Mountains (USA), Brazil, and India.

Identified on: 5/1/2026

Mode: Standard