mineral

Garnet

Garnet-group silicate, likely almandine–spessartine; general formula X₃Y₂(SiO₄)₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically deep red-brown with a vitreous luster, granular texture, and no cleavage; hardness 6.5–7.5 Mohs, cubic crystal system, and specific gravity about 3.5–4.3. The specimen appears naturally irregular or roughly tumbled, with dark inclusions and reflective crystal faces.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Garnet forms in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss, and in some igneous rocks and placer deposits; its age depends on the host rock, commonly Paleozoic to Precambrian. It crystallizes under elevated temperature and pressure during regional metamorphism.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive in sandpaper, waterjet cutting, and filtration; transparent red varieties are cut as gemstones. Common rough specimens generally have modest collecting value.

Geological facts

Red garnet is commonly almandine, though composition is often mixed; color varies with iron and manganese content. Garnet’s lack of cleavage makes it durable and useful as an abrasive.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its wine-red to brown color, glassy luster, high density, absence of cleavage, and commonly rounded dodecahedral or trapezohedral crystals; streak is usually white. Common sources include India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, the United States, and metamorphic terrains worldwide.