mineral

Garnet

Garnet Group (formula varies, e.g., Almasndine: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Typically deep red to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedron or trapezohedron); Cleavage: None/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.1-4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Typically deep red to reddish-brown
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified January 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature; also found in some igneous rocks. Occurs in various geological ages globally.

Uses & applications

Used as an industrial abrasive for sandblasting and waterjet cutting; high-quality specimens are used in jewelry and as traditional birthstones for January.

Geological facts

Garnet is uniquely found in nearly every color except blue in nature; it was historically used in ancient Rome as signet rings and as an abrasive to engrave other gems.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct crystal shape (twelve-sided faces), lack of cleavage, and exceptional hardness; commonly found in metamorphic regions like the Adirondack Mountains or the gems of Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral