metamorphic

Garnet-bearing metamorphic rock, possibly garnet amphibolite or mica schist

Almandine garnet (Fe₃Al₂Si₃O₁₂) in a mafic, amphibole–feldspar-rich matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark green-gray, coarse and strongly granular, with a prominent brown-orange garnet crystal; likely hardness 6–7 overall, garnet about 6.5–7.5 Mohs, vitreous to dull luster, and no obvious cleavage in the garnet.

Identified August 13, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Garnet-bearing metamorphic rock, possibly garnet amphibolite or mica schist
Scientific name: Almandine garnet (Fe₃Al₂Si₃O₁₂) in a mafic, amphibole–feldspar-rich matrix
Category: metamorphic
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 as a common hand specimen; $50–$150 or more if the garnet is well-formed, attractive, and provenance is documented.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when a mafic igneous protolith was subjected to elevated temperature and pressure during regional metamorphism, commonly in Precambrian to Paleozoic mountain belts; exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen; garnet may be used as an abrasive or gemstone, while the host rock has little commercial value for construction unless quarried locally.

Geological facts

The orange-brown crystal is consistent with almandine or an almandine-rich garnet, but identification requires testing or analysis; green matrix minerals may include amphibole, chlorite, epidote, and feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Look for a dense dark metamorphic matrix containing embedded, glassy garnet grains; garnet is commonly found in metamorphic terrains worldwide, including India, Madagascar, Norway, the United States, and Canada.