mineral

Garnet (likely Almandine or Pyrope)

Garnet (Group Name), Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 or Mg3Al2(SiO4)3

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to pinkish-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep reddish-brown to pinkish-red
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to pinkish-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed under high temperatures and pressures in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as accessory minerals in igneous rocks. Typically Neoproterozoic in East African regions.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting), in jewelry as a gemstone, and as an index mineral for determining metamorphic history.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age. The name comes from 'granatus' (grain), likely referring to the pomegranate fruit. The location in southern Ethiopia/northern Kenya is part of the Mozambique Belt, famous for high-quality colored gemstones.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its high hardness, lacks cleavage, and characteristic deep red color. Look for 'dodecahedron' crystal shapes in the host rock. These rough specimens show typical alluvial or metamorphic shattering.