gemstone

Red Garnet Gemstone

Pyrope-Almandine Garnet (Mg3Al2(SiO4)3 to Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Deep red to purplish-red, Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.3

Hardness: 6

Identified July 10, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 (Mohs), Color: Deep red to purplish-red, Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (dodecahedral), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 3.6-4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-pressure and high-temperature metamorphic environments such as schists, gneisses, or within certain igneous rocks like peridotites. Often found as rounded water-worn pebbles in alluvial deposits.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry as a faceted or cabochon gemstone; also used as an industrial abrasive for sandblasting and water-jet cutting.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January. The name garnet comes from the Latin 'granatus' meaning pomegranate, referring to the red seeds. In West Java, Indonesia, gem-quality stones are often sourced from volcanic and metamorphic river deposits.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its deep red color and lack of cleavage. In the field, look in riverbeds or within metamorphic host rock. Its high specific gravity causes it to settle in 'heavy sand' concentrations.