mineral

Likely garnet (rough, iron-rich variety)

Possibly almandine garnet, Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃; image alone cannot confirm identification

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark reddish-brown, glassy to resinous luster, with irregular fracture and no obvious cleavage; garnet hardness is about 6.5–7.5 Mohs and its crystals are cubic (isometric).

Identified October 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Dark reddish-brown, glassy to resinous luster, with irregular fracture and no obvious cleavage; garnet hardness is about 6.5–7.5 Mohs and its crystals are cubic (isometric).

Formation & geological history

Garnets commonly form during metamorphism of aluminum-rich rocks, often in schist or gneiss; many formed hundreds of millions to billions of years ago, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Garnet is used as an abrasive and, when transparent and attractive, as a gemstone; this opaque-looking piece appears primarily suited to collecting.

Geological facts

Garnet is a mineral group rather than a single mineral, with colors and chemistry varying by species.

Field identification & locations

The red-brown color and shiny broken surfaces are consistent with garnet, but confirmation requires tests such as hardness, density, and crystal examination. Garnets occur worldwide, including India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and the United States.