mineral

Garnet (likely pyrope–almandine)

Garnet-group nesosilicate, commonly pyrope Mg₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃ or almandine Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark red, translucent rough crystal with vitreous luster; typically cubic/isometric structure and no cleavage, with conchoidal or uneven fracture. Hardness is 6.5–7.5 Mohs and specific gravity about 3.5–4.3.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Garnet (likely pyrope–almandine)
Scientific name: Garnet-group nesosilicate, commonly pyrope Mg₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃ or almandine Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃
Category: mineral
Identified: August 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for ordinary rough material; approximately $25–$200+ for attractive transparent gem-quality rough, depending on species, size, clarity, and provenance.

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

Forms chiefly in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss, though some varieties crystallize in igneous rocks; garnets range from Precambrian to modern geological ages. The specimen may be gem rough or a fragment rather than a complete crystal.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive and, when transparent and attractive, as a gemstone in jewelry. Small rough pieces are commonly sold to collectors or lapidaries.

Geological facts

Red garnet varieties include pyrope, almandine, and rhodolite; color alone cannot reliably distinguish them. Garnet commonly resists weathering and accumulates in stream sediments.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its wine-red color, glassy luster, high density, lack of cleavage, and scratch resistance; a refractometer, specific-gravity test, or gemological analysis is needed for species confirmation. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and the United States.