Garnet
Nesosilicate, Almandine-Pyrope variety · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically occurs as dodecahedral or trapezohedral crystals, or in rounded granular masses.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Nesosilicates)
Chemical Formula
Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 to Mg3Al2(SiO4)3
Formation Process
Metamorphic (formed under high pressure and temperature in regional metamorphic rocks like mica schists) or Igneous (in pegmatites).
About This Crystal
A deep reddish-brown to brownish-black specimen with an earthy to sub-vitreous luster. Features a rough, weathered surface with visible internal fractures and a translucent to opaque body.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Dark brownish-red; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Sub-conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 3.6 - 4.3; Fluorescence: Usually inert.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive; Refractive Index: 1.72 - 1.83; Lacks pleochroism due to cubic structure; may show high dispersion but masked by dark body color.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; notable sources include India, Madagascar, USA (Idaho, New York), and Sri Lanka. Often found in schist and gneiss.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 - 7.5; Toughness: Fair to Good; highly stable and durable for jewelry though susceptible to sharp blows.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe but avoid for stones with visible fractures; avoid extreme temperature changes.
Rarity & Value
Common; value is determined by transparency and color saturation; heavily included or opaque specimens are inexpensive and used primarily for industrial abrasive or study.
Special Characteristics
May exhibit minor magnetism due to high iron content in Almandine varieties; surface often shows 'etched' pits from weathering.
Lore & History
Historically used as a 'warrior's stone' for protection; traditionally associated with the Root Chakra and believed to promote grounding, vitality, and strength.