mineral

Red Garnet

Pyrope or Almandine (X3Y2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Habit: Dodecahedral. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

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

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Deep reddish-brown to dark red. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric/Cubic. Habit: Dodecahedral. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-pressure and high-temperature environments in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as accessory minerals in igneous rocks. Found globally in ancient shield regions.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive in industry (waterjet cutting, sandpaper), as a gemstone in jewelry, and for geological dating of metamorphic events.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age. The name 'garnet' comes from the Latin 'granatus' meaning grain, likely a reference to the seeds of a pomegranate.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its typically roundish or 12-sided crystal shape, high hardness (scratches glass), and absence of cleavage (breaks with conchoidal fracture). Common in river beds as 'ruby sand' in certain regions.