GARNET
Garnet
Garnet group
A gemstone group extending far beyond red, including green tsavorite and demantoid.
GEM PROFILE
Basic properties
- Mineral or material
- Garnet group
- Main chemical composition
- Silicate compositions vary by species
- Crystal & structure
- Cubic (isometric)
A group containing several mineral species. Dodecahedral and trapezohedral crystals are well known.
- Typical colors
- Red, purplish red, orange, yellow, green and more
- Mohs hardness
- 6.5–7.5
A measure of scratch resistance, distinct from resistance to impact or breakage.
About hardness and durability - Representative sources
Examples of known sources. Determining the origin of an individual stone requires examination and comparison with reference material.
- Common cutting styles
- Rounds, ovals, cushions and other shapes, according to the species and rough.
Explore cutting styles
LOOK A LITTLE CLOSER
What to observe
Refractive index, specific gravity and hardness vary within the group. Consider the species or variety name alongside its color.
TREATMENT & CARE
Treatments & care
Treatments & identification
Many garnets are used without treatment, but filling and other treatments may be encountered in some material. Check the individual stone's information.
Everyday care
Wash with lukewarm water and mild detergent. Avoid steam cleaning and store gems so that they do not rub against one another.
Cleaning depends on treatment, inclusions and mounting. If a stone's condition is unknown, ask your jeweler or a gem specialist before cleaning.
READING & REFERENCES
References
Public sources for learning about this gemstone's general properties.
- GIA · Gemological reference
- GIA · Care & Cleaning
- Handbook of Mineralogy · Mineral data (PDF)
- GIA · Gem sources and fundamentals
This dictionary provides general educational information. Values are representative and do not identify or grade an individual stone. Locality examples include historical deposits.
Sources checked: October 19, 2026