gemstone

Red garnet (likely almandine or pyrope)

Garnet-group nesosilicate; commonly almandine, Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃, or pyrope, Mg₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Deep red, translucent to transparent, with vitreous to resinous luster and no cleavage; typically Mohs hardness 6.5–7.5, cubic crystal structure, and specific gravity about 3.5–4.3. The rough, rounded-cut appearance and internal fractures are consistent with a garnet gem rough.

Identified August 29, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Red garnet (likely almandine or pyrope)
Scientific name: Garnet-group nesosilicate; commonly almandine, Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃, or pyrope, Mg₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 29, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$75 for common rough material; approximately $100–$1,000+ for large, clean, strongly colored gem-quality rough or cut garnet.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss, or in igneous rocks and alluvial gravels; individual crystals commonly formed during Paleozoic to younger regional metamorphism, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, abrasive, water-filtration media, and industrial blasting abrasive. Clear, richly colored pieces are faceted; opaque material is commonly sold as mineral rough.

Geological facts

Garnet is not a single mineral but a compositional group with nearly identical cubic structures. Unlike ruby or spinel, garnet commonly shows no cleavage and may display characteristic dark inclusions or color zoning.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its saturated red color, high hardness, lack of cleavage, dense feel, and refractive sparkle; a refractometer, specific-gravity test, and hardness testing help distinguish it from glass and ruby. Common sources include India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Tanzania, and the United States.