
metamorphic
Tumbled garnet-bearing rock, likely garnet schist
Garnet (typically almandine, Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃) in a quartz–mica matrix; exact identification is uncertain from the photo
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectRounded, polished dark reddish-brown specimen with small reflective grains. Garnet is Mohs 6.5–7.5, commonly vitreous, and forms cubic-system crystals; matrix minerals may be softer and show cleavage.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Tumbled garnet-bearing rock, likely garnet schist in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Rounded, polished dark reddish-brown specimen with small reflective grains. Garnet is Mohs 6.5–7.5, commonly vitreous, and forms cubic-system crystals; matrix minerals may be softer and show cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Garnet commonly grows during regional metamorphism of aluminum-rich rocks under heat and pressure. Such rocks form across many geological ages and mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Garnet is used as an abrasive and, when transparent and attractive, as a gemstone; garnet-bearing specimens are also collected.
Geological facts
Almandine is the most common garnet species and often appears deep red to brown. The image does not show enough detail to confirm the species or host rock.
Field identification & locations
Look for hard, glassy red-brown grains, often with rounded or dodecahedral crystal shapes, in a contrasting matrix. Garnet-bearing metamorphic rocks occur worldwide, including the United States, India, and Madagascar.
More like this
Other metamorphic specimens
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Amphibolite
Amphibolite
metamorphic
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (Mn, Fe, Mg, Ca)SiO3
mineral
Rhodonite
(Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
mineral
Greenschist
Greenschist (containing Chlorite, Actinolite, and Epidote)
metamorphic
Garnet
Garnet group: X3Y2(SiO4)3 (commonly Almandine-Pyrope series)
mineral