gemstone

Garnet

Group of silicate minerals (e.g., Almandine: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Deep red, reddish-brown, or other colors, Luster: Vitreous to resinous, Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic), Cleavage: None (exhibits conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 3.5 to 4.3

Hardness: 6

Identified August 7, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed predominantly in metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses through regional metamorphism, as well as in igneous rocks like granitic pegmatites and peridotites.

Uses & applications

Widely used as precious gemstones in jewelry, as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting, and in water filtration.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used since the Bronze Age as gemstones and abrasives. The name comes from the Latin word 'granatus', meaning 'grain', resembling pomegranate seeds.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinct isometric crystal habit (often dodecahedrons or trapezohedrons), high hardness, lack of cleavage, and characteristic deep red color. Found globally in metamorphic terranes, river placers, and pegmatites.