mineral

Red Garnet

Almandine Garnet (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric (typically dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple-red
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark purple-red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric (typically dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss through intense heat and pressure on sedimentary rocks. It can also occur in igneous rocks such as granite or pegmatite.

Uses & applications

Used widely as an abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting), in jewelry as a gemstone, and in industrial filtration systems.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. It is known for its high refractive index, which gives faceted gems their 'fire.' Samples found in the Adirondack Mountains of New York are world-famous for their industrial quality.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct reddish-to-amber color, lack of cleavage (it breaks unevenly), and crystal shape. Often found in riverbeds as rounded pebbles or embedded in micaceous schist.