mineral
Pyrope Garnet
Magnesium aluminum silicate (Mg3Al2Si3O12)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Blood red to dark red/black, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 3.5-3.8
- Hardness
- 7-7
Identified More mineral →
Explore Pyrope Garnet in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Blood red to dark red/black, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 3.5-3.8
Formation & geological history
Formed under high pressure in the upper mantle. Often found in ultra-high-pressure metamorphic rocks like eclogites and peridotites, or in igneous rocks like kimberlites.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry. Industrial applications include abrasives (waterjet cutting, sandblasting) and filtration media.
Geological facts
Pyrope's name comes from the Greek word 'pyropos', meaning 'fire-eyed', due to its intense red color. It is the only garnet always found in ultramafic rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its lack of cleavage, high density, and deep red color without brown/orange undertones (typical of Almandine). Found in alluvial deposits and kimberlite pipes (e.g., South Africa, Czech Republic, Arizona).
