Rock Identifier
Rough Garnet (likely Almandine or Pyrope) (Garnet group; Almandine Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 or Pyrope Mg3Al2(SiO4)3) — mineral
mineral

Rough Garnet (likely Almandine or Pyrope)

Garnet group; Almandine Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 or Pyrope Mg3Al2(SiO4)3

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to dark burgundy; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3

Hardness
6
Color
Reddish-brown to dark burgundy
Luster
Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to dark burgundy; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Isometric (often dodecahedral); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions typically within metamorphic rocks like mica schists, gneisses, or occasionally in igneous rocks like pegmatites. These specimens can range in age from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used as an abrasive in water-jet cutting and sandblasting (industrial grade), or faceted into gemstones for jewelry. It is also a popular specimen for mineral collectors and students of geology.

Geological facts

Garnets are the birthstone for January. They have been used as gemstones and abrasives since the Bronze Age and were popular in Ancient Roman signet rings. Some varieties exhibit a 'color-change' effect similar to alexandrite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct 12-sided crystal habit, high hardness (can scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. Common locations include the Adirondack Mountains (USA), India, Brazil, and Madagascar.

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