mineral

Almandine Garnet

Almandine, Fe3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep red, brownish-red, to nearly black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic), commonly forming dodecahedrons or trapezohedrons. Cleavage: None (exhibits parting). Specific gravity: 3.9 - 4.3.

Hardness: 7
Color: Deep red, brownish-red, to nearly black
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified August 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses via regional metamorphism of argillaceous sediments, and occasionally in igneous rocks like granitic pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Widely used as a gemstone in jewelry, as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting, and sought after by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Almandine is the most common and widespread 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

Identified by its deep red-to-black color, high specific gravity, vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. Often found as rounded pebbles or embedded crystals in metamorphic schists.