Almandine Garnet
Almandine Garnet is a deep red to reddish-brown variety of garnet known for its rich color, durability, and widespread use in jewelry.
About
Almandine Garnet
Almandine Garnet is a popular gemstone known for its deep red to reddish-brown color. It belongs to the aluminum-rich garnet family and has been used in jewelry for centuries. This stone forms under high pressure in metamorphic rocks and is also found in igneous deposits. Its rich red color comes mainly from the presence of iron. Almandine has a glass-like luster and shows good brilliance when cut properly. With a hardness of 7–7.5, it is durable and suitable for daily wear. It is usually natural and untreated, making it highly desirable. Major sources include India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and Madagascar.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Name | Almandine Garnet |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Almandine Garnet |
| Mineral Group | Garnet (Silicate Mineral) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7 – 7.5 |
| Color | Deep red, reddish-brown, purplish-red |
| Origin | India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, USA |
| Chemical Formula | Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃ |
Quick Facts
| Crystal System | Cubic (Isometric) |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 3.9 – 4.3 |
| Birthstone | January |
| Refractive Index | 1.76 – 1.83 |
| Optical Character | Isotropic |
| Dispersion | Low to moderate |
| Major Sources | India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, USA |
| Treatments | None |
| Price Range | $5 – $100 |
| Care Instructions | Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals. Store separately to prevent scratches. |