mineral

Garnet

Garnet group: X3Y2(SiO4)3 (commonly Almandine-Pyrope series)

Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark gray (weathered). Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral or trapezohedral). Cleavage: None (indistinct). Specific gravity: 3.5 to 4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark gray (weathered)
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under high temperatures and pressures within metamorphic rocks like mica schists or gneisses. This specific dodecahedral shape is characteristic of growth within a metamorphic matrix.

Uses & applications

Industrial abrasive (waterjet cutting, sandpaper), gemstone jewelry when high quality, and geological indicator of metamorphic grade.

Geological facts

Garnets are one of the few minerals that naturally form in near-perfect geometric shapes like the 12-sided dodecahedron. They are the birthstone for January.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 12-sided crystal habit, high hardness, and reddish-brown translucent hints under strong light. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains such as the Adirondack Mountains or the Appalachians.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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