mineral

Garnet (Almandine/Pyrope variety)

Silicate mineral group; typically Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 (Almandine) or Mg3Al2(SiO4)3 (Pyrope)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Deep burgundy, wine red to reddish-black; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedron); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep burgundy, wine red to reddish-black
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to resinous

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed most commonly in metamorphic rocks such as mica schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature; also found in certain igneous rocks like granites or as detrital grains in sedimentary sandstones.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry as gemstones (faceted or beads). Industrial grade garnet is used immensely as an abrasive for sandblasting, waterjet cutting, and sandpaper.

Geological facts

Garnet is the official birthstone for January. While red is most common, garnets can occur in almost every color except blue. It has been used in jewelry for over 5,000 years, appearing in ancient Egyptian burials and Roman signet rings.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lack of cleavage, high hardness, and its characteristic dodecahedral (12-sided) crystal habit when raw; beads exhibit high luster and deep red translucency. Common locations include India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and the USA (Arizona and New York).