mineral

Garnet

Garnet Group (Silicate Minerals), formula varies e.g., Alm: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral). Cleavage: None, exhibits subconchoidal fracture.

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

Identified June 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral). Cleavage: None, exhibits subconchoidal fracture.

Formation & geological history

Formed under high temperature and pressure in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.

Uses & applications

Used as an industrial abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting), a gemstone in jewelry, and a geological dating tool.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. While red is most common, it can occur in almost any color except blue. It has been used as a gemstone since the Bronze Age.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'equant' or rounded crystal shape, glassy luster, and high hardness. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains such as the Adirondacks or the Alps.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic