gemstone

Hessonite Garnet (Grossular)

Ca3Al2(SiO4)3 (Grossular Garnet)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Orangey-brown, reddish-brown, yellow-amber ('cinnamon stone'). Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Specific Gravity: 3.6-3.7.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified July 24, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Orangey-brown, reddish-brown, yellow-amber ('cinnamon stone'). Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Specific Gravity: 3.6-3.7.

Formation & geological history

Formed in contact or regional metamorphic environments, specifically in skarns and metamorphosed limestones. Often found in alluvial placer deposits.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, particularly in traditional Vedic astrology (Jyotish) as Rahu's gem, and as a collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Hessonite is known as the 'cinnamon stone' due to its characteristic warm brownish-orange color, which is caused by manganese and iron impurities inside the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive yellowish-orange to brownish-red color and characteristic 'treacle' or roiled inclusion appearance under magnification. Commonly mined in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Tanzania.

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