Almandine
Almandine is a silicate mineral recognized for its hardness and durability, with notable Chinese occurrences.
About Almandine
Almandine is a silicate mineral in the garnet supergroup / garnet group and has the chemical formula Fe²⁺₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃. It crystallizes in the isometric system and ranks among the harder species, with lasting durability.
Identification & care
Almandine typically forms dodecahedral, trapezohedral; massive. Its color range is broad, including deep red, brownish red, red-violet, and black. The luster is vitreous, resinous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is none; parting on {110}. The fracture is conchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Almandine holds a steady place in systematic mineral collections. Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Jiama Cu-polymetallic deposit and Dachang ore field, among others.