mineral

Garnet (likely Almandine or Pyrope)

Garnet Group, Nesosilicates (Complex chemistry, e.g., Almandine: Fe3Al2Si3O12)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to reddish-purple (wine-colored); Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal structure: Cubic (isometric), often forming dodecahedrons; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 3.1–4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep red to reddish-purple (wine-colored)
Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature, or in certain igneous rocks. Found in geological formations spanning from Precambrian to more recent eras.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (January birthstone) due to its durability. Industrially, it is used as an abrasive in waterjet cutting, sandblasting, and filtration media.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age and were popular in Ancient Roman jewelry. Some 'Bohemian garnets' are historically significant for their intense dark red color and were a Victorian fashion staple.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic deep red 'pomegranate' color, high hardness (cannot be scratched by steel), and lack of cleavage. Common locations include India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and the United States (New York/Arizona).