mineral

Garnet (Almandine/Pyrope series)

Garnet Group - X3Y2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep reddish-brown to black
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified June 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to black. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks seperti schist and gneiss through high heat and pressure, as well as in some igneous rocks. These particular dark, rough fragments likely come from weathered metamorphic deposits.

Uses & applications

Used widely as abrasive (sandpaper, waterjet cutting), gemstones in jewelry, and geological indicators for metamorphic history.

Geological facts

Garnet is the January birthstone. It is unusual because it can act as a natural thermometer for geologists, helping them determine the pressure and temperature at which a rock formed.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high hardness (scratches glass), dodecahedral crystal habit (though these are fragments), and lack of cleavage. Common in many mountain ranges globally.

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