mineral

Black Garnet (Melanite)

Andradite, Ca3Fe2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5 to 7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Black or very dark green; Luster: Sub-adamantine to vitreous; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral habit); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 3.8 to 3.9

Hardness: 6
Color: Black or very dark green
Luster: Sub-adamantine to vitreous

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5 to 7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Black or very dark green; Luster: Sub-adamantine to vitreous; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral habit); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 3.8 to 3.9

Formation & geological history

Formed through contact or regional metamorphism of calcareous rocks like limestone, and also found in alkaline igneous rocks like nepheline syenites and phonolites.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in mourning jewelry, as a collector specimen, and occasionally as an industrial abrasive due to its hardness.

Geological facts

Melanite is a titanium-rich variety of andradite garnet. Its deep black color is caused by the substitution of titanium for iron in its crystal lattice. It was historically popular for Victorian mourning jewelry.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its high density, 'soccer ball' like dodecahedral crystal habit, and the fact it is non-magnetic compared to similar-looking magnetite. Commonly found in Mali, Mexico, Italy, and the USA (California and Arizona).