mineral

Red Garnet

Almandine and Pyrope (Silicate minerals: Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 and Mg3Al2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 3.5–4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Deep red to brownish-red
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Deep red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 3.5–4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss under high pressure and temperature; also found as accessory minerals in igneous rocks. They can range from Precambrian to recent geological ages.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, especially in affordable gold and silver settings. Industrially used as an abrasive in waterjet cutting and sandblasting due to its hardness and sharp fracture.

Geological facts

Garnet is the birthstone for January and has been used since the Bronze Age. Ancient Romans used garnet signet rings to seal important documents. Unlike many other gemstones, garnets used in jewelry are rarely treated with heat or chemicals.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 12-sided (dodecahedron) or 24-sided (trapezohedron) crystal shapes and its lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in metamorphic terranes and concentrated in 'heavy mineral' beach sands.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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Mineral/Rock

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Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

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