mineral
Garnet
Nesosilicate group (e.g., Almandine: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)
Hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, typically deep red to brown in color, vitreous to resinous luster, crystal structure is isometric (often dodecahedron or trapezohedron), conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and specific gravity ranging from 3.5 to 4.3.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, typically deep red to brown in color, vitreous to resinous luster, crystal structure is isometric (often dodecahedron or trapezohedron), conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, and specific gravity ranging from 3.5 to 4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses through regional or contact metamorphism, and occasionally in igneous rocks like granitic pegmatites and peridotites under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting, as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry, and occasionally in industrial filtration.
Geological facts
Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age. The name comes from the Latin word 'granatus', meaning grain, likely referring to pomegranate seeds due to their similar appearance and shape.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic isometric crystal habit (rounded 12-sided shapes), reddish-brown color, and high hardness. Commonly found worldwide in metamorphic terranes, river gravels, and beach sands.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic