mineral
Garnet
Garnet group species (likely Almandine, Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to translucent ruby red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedron). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Deep reddish-brown to translucent ruby red
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to translucent ruby red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedron). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed under high heat and pressure in metamorphic rocks such as schist or gneiss. These minerals can also be found in certain igneous rocks and as alluvial deposits in riverbeds.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone and in industry as an abrasive for waterjet cutting and sandblasting due to its hardness and sharp edges.
Geological facts
Garnet is the birthstone for January and has been used as a gemstone since the Bronze Age in Egypt. Ancient warriors believed garnets brought victory and protection from injury.
Field identification & locations
Look for rounded, ball-like crystals with many flat faces in metamorphic matrix. Often found in riverbeds as dark red heavy grains. Its lack of cleavage and high hardness help distinguish it from other red minerals.
