mineral

Garnet

Almandine (Fe3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

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

Identified June 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Formed through high-pressure and high-temperature regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks like shale. Commonly found in metamorphic rocks such as mica schists and gneisses.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive in sandpaper and waterjet cutting, as a gemstone in jewelry, and for geological dating and thermobarometry research.

Geological facts

Garnets are the birthstone for January and have been used in jewelry since the Bronze Age. The name comes from the Latin word 'granatus', meaning seed-like, referring to pomegranate seeds.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'soccer ball' shape (dodecahedron), high hardness making it resistant to scratches, and lack of cleavage. Common in heavy mineral sand deposits.