Mineral
Garnet (Almandine)
Almandine Garnet (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)
Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to localized deep red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 4.1–4.3.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Reddish-brown to localized deep red
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to localized deep red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 4.1–4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks (pelites) such as shale or schist. They typically appear in metamorphic belts aged from Precambrian to recent.
Uses & applications
Common industrial use as an abrasive in sandblasting and water-jet cutting. Higher-grade specimens are used in jewelry as birthstones or for faceting; rough specimens are common in beginner mineral collections.
Geological facts
Garnet is the official state mineral of Connecticut; the name 'garnet' comes from the Latin word 'granatus', meaning seed, likely referring to the seeds of a pomegranate.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its characteristic 12-sided (dodecahedron) crystal shape, high density for its size, and red-brown streak. Commonly found in mica schists across the Northeast US, India, and Brazil.
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sedimentary
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Metamorphic
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Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
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Mineral/Rock
Granite
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igneous