mineral
Almandine Garnet
Fe3Al2(SiO4)3
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, deep red to brownish-black color, vitreous to resinous luster, and isometric crystal system with no true cleavage.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Almandine Garnet in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, deep red to brownish-black color, vitreous to resinous luster, and isometric crystal system with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses via regional metamorphism, as well as in certain igneous rocks like granitic pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an abrasive in waterjet cutting, sandblasting, and as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Almandine is the most common variety of garnet and is often found in rounded, dodecahedral crystal habits known as crystal pebbles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dark reddish-brown color, high hardness, conchoidal to uneven fracture, and frequent occurrence as rounded trapezohedral or dodecahedral crystals in schist matrices.
