Almandite Garnet

Almandite or almandine is a mineral species in the garnet group; cubic crystal system; chemical composition FeAL (SiO4)3
transparent to semi-translucent (for very dark stones)
reddish orange to red, slightly purplish red to reddish purple: typically dark in tone

Identification

Optic Character: SR, often ADR
Refractive Index: 1.790 (3.030)
Birefringence: none
Dispersion: .024 HAYA
Pleochroism: none
Ultraviolet Fluorescence: inert
Absorption Spectra: usually three strong bands at 504, 520, and 573 nm but may also show fainter lines at 423, 460, 610, and 680-690 nm
Cause of Color: iron
Specific Gravity: 4.05 (+.25, -.12)
Polish Luster: vitreous to subadamantine
Fracture: conchoidal
Luster: greasy to vitreous
Cleavage: none; may have indistinct parting
Hardness: 7 to 71/2
Toughness: fair to good

January, Aquarius (approximately Jan. 20 – Feb. 18), 11:00 am, 2nd wedding anniversary

Major Sources: India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Brazil. Others: Greenland, Kenya, Pakistan, Tanza-nia, US

Gem Reference Guide, Published by GIA. ISBN 0-87311-019-6

Gemstones of the World, Published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc NY, ISBN 1-4027-4016-6

Encyclopedia of GEMSTONE, Published by ISHINSHA CO., LTD. ISBN 978-986-251-831-1