Almandine is found in rock forms and is up to 8% aluminum oxide by weight. Almandine is most abundant as a gemstone. The name comes from the Italian word that means red which refers to the color of this variety of garnet. The almandine crystal structure ranges from hexagonal to rhombohedral proportions. In color, they are usually found as a deep red with a brownish shade.
Almandine is converted into rust-red hematite by a natural process discovered in 1913 by Wohler and H.R. Schubert. In 1820, the production of synthetic garnet started and in the 19th century, the advanced technology of artificial heat treatment transformed it into Almandine artificially for gemstone quality use.
1. Why Is It So Special?
The eye-catching color of this garnet is ruby. They are valued for their deep red color, making them a perfect jewelry piece.
Garnets come in many shades and tones. Each type of garnet has a different coloring, hardness and luster (shine), but all garnets come in this deep red color, which is impossible without aluminum oxide. Almandine garnets are nearly colorless. They are more than 99% transparent, so they only become visible when set in a jewelry setting that magnifies their color.
2. How Is It Formed?
The almandine garnet is formed in a fissure, an irregular crack from widening or widening cracks in the stone. The growth of the garnet occurs from both sides of the crack and this causes the crystals to appear as if they are glittering with brilliant red rays. The almandine garnets came to light in the late 18th century.
3. Popularity and Availability in The Market
Almandine garnets have gained popularity over the years as some great jewelry designers use them. They are available on the market in different sizes, shapes and cuts. Yet they are one of the garnets that will continue stable while others fade in price.
4. Cultural Significance
Almandine garnet is found in different parts of the world. They are mined in the United States of America, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Russia. They are available on the market in the form of gemstones and as mineral specimens.
5. What Are Its Benefits?
Garnet is a stone of brilliance and inspiration; it enhances the mind’s power of concentration. It boosts positive energy and creativity and helps with overcoming fear and stress. Garnet is also known for its cleansing properties. It clears the mind from negativity and psychic disturbances. Additionally, it enhances the beauty and brings luck to its wearer.
6. What Are Its Properties?
The characteristics of almandine garnet are:
• The hardness is 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, which is the same as that of a diamond. [Almandine does not scratch with another mineral except another garnet.]. This makes it durable and resistant to erosion and extremes in temperature.
• This garnet has been used as a gemstone since ancient times and is one of the most popular crystals among all types of people because they find it attractive. Their colors are vivid and brilliant, they have a silky luster and their color closely resembles that of a ruby.
• It is resistant to heat and can withstand temperatures reaching 1700°C (3300°F). [It cannot be used in the manufacture of ceramic products.]
• Its hardness is less than that of diamond and sapphire but greater than that of quartz or corundum, making it a relatively tough gem, good for wear against the skin as rings or necklaces.
Finally, almandine garnet is a brilliant red and colorful gem. It is an ideal gemstone for jewelry, which can be used to make your look more dazzling and beautiful.