mineral
Garnet
Pyrope or Almandine (X3Y2(SiO4)3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to orange-red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral); Specific gravity: 3.5–4.3.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Deep red to orange-red
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
Identified More mineral →
Explore Garnet in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to orange-red; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral); Specific gravity: 3.5–4.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed under high temperature and pressure in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks like basalt.
Uses & applications
Used extensively as an abrasive in sandpaper and water-jet cutting, and as a gemstone in jewelry.
Geological facts
Garnet is the official birthstone for January and has been used as a gemstone since the Bronze Age. Crystals are known for their 12-sided (dodecahedron) shape.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep red color and crystal habit. Commonly found in river sands (garnet sand) or embedded in metamorphic schist. Found globally, notably in NY (USA), India, and Madagascar.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary