mineral

Red Garnet (Pyrope or Almandine)

Garnet Group (A3B2(SiO4)3)

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Dark deep red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Hardness: 6
Color: Dark deep red to brownish-red
Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous

Identified April 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.5. Color: Dark deep red to brownish-red. Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous. Crystal structure: Isometric (dodecahedral). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.5-4.3.

Formation & geological history

Usually formed under high pressure and temperature in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss, or as accessory minerals in igneous rocks like peridotite or granitic pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone and as an industrial abrasive for waterjet cutting and sandblasting due to its hardness and sharp fractured edges.

Geological facts

Garnets have been used as gemstones since the Bronze Age. They are the official birthstone for January and were historically believed to protect travelers and light up the night.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lack of cleavage, high hardness, and 'equant' (circular or soccer-ball shaped) crystal habit. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains in places like India, Brazil, and the USA.

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