mineral

Almandine Garnet

Almandine (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Dark red, brownish-red, to nearly black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric, commonly forming well-defined dodecahedral or trapezohedral crystals. Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 3.9 - 4.3.

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

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in metamorphic rocks such as mica schists and gneisses via regional metamorphism of aluminum-rich argillaceous sediments, and also in certain igneous rocks like granite pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting, in industrial filtration, and as a semi-precious gemstone when transparent and of high quality.

Geological facts

Almandine is the most common and widespread member of the garnet group. Its name is derived from Alabanda, an ancient town in Asia Minor where garnets were cut and traded in antiquity.

Field identification & locations

Easily identifiable in the field by its characteristic deep red-brown color, high specific gravity (feels heavy for its size), and distinct isometric crystal habit (dodecahedrons). Found worldwide, notably in India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.