mineral
Garnet
Almandine Garnet (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, deep red to black color, vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, and no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, deep red to black color, vitreous luster, isometric crystal system, and no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss through regional metamorphism under high temperatures and pressures.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry and as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting.
Geological facts
Garnet has been used as a gemstone since the Bronze Age and is the traditional birthstone for January.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive dark red color, high hardness, and dodecahedral crystal habit when raw; commonly found globally in metamorphic terranes.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous