Garnet is not a single mineral but rather a group of silicate minerals (Si3O12) that have similar physical properties, structure and crystal forms, but differ slightly in chemical composition. The traditional and common variations of this group include: Almandine (red to brown), Pyrope (red to purple), Spessartine (orange to red to brown), Andradite (green, yellow, black), Grossular (green, yellow, orange, brown, pink, clear) and Uvarovite (green). To sum it up, this group of minerals comes in all colors except blue. And because of their hardness (6.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale), and particularly the highly sought after rich dark red color, this group of minerals is primarily known for their use in the gem/jewelry trade.
The crystal system for Garnet is isometric, forming distinctive dodecahedral and trapezohedral crystals. Other forms include grainy and massive.
Garnet is found throughout the world. Notable locations include Afghanistan, Brazil, India, Myanmar, Namibia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Russia.
