gemstone

Garnet (Almandine or Pyrope)

Garnet group; (Fe,Mg)3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Deep red to reddish-purple, Luster: Vitreous to resinous, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Dodecahedral), Cleavage: None/Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3

Hardness: 6

Identified July 18, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Deep red to reddish-purple, Luster: Vitreous to resinous, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Dodecahedral), Cleavage: None/Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature, but also found in some igneous rocks. These minerals are indicators of high-grade regional metamorphism.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry as a gemstone, and in industry as an abrasive (sandblasting and waterjet cutting) due to its hardness and lack of cleavage.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. Throughout history, red garnets were called 'carbuncles'. While red is common, garnets actually occur in every color except blue.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic deep red color, high density, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in alluvium (river beds) as rounded pebbles or embedded in metamorphic schists.

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