COMPARE GUIDE
Almandine GarnetVSRhodolite Garnet
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
Decisive distinctionsDECISIVE
- ◎ is higher in Almandine Garnet, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Almandine Garnet, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
Note: properties whose numeric ranges do not overlap are auto-extracted. Both are measurable with a refractometer or heavy-liquid bath.
Physical propertiesPROPERTIES
| Property | A: Almandine Garnet | B: Rhodolite Garnet | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.770–1.830 | 1.745–1.760 | A higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 3.95–4.30 | 3.74–3.94 | A higher |
| Mohs hardness | 7.0–7.5 | 7.0–7.5 | Nearly equal |
| Birefringence | — | — | — |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
Optics & fluorescenceOPTICS & UV
| Property | A: Almandine Garnet | B: Rhodolite Garnet |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 等軸晶系 | 等軸晶系 |
| Pleochroism | — | — |
| Chelsea filter | inert | red / pink |
| UV (long-wave) | inert | inert |
| UV (short-wave) | inert | inert |
ObservationOBSERVATION
◆Almandine is darker and shows brownish modifiers; rhodolite is brighter and more purplish-pink, with lower specific gravity.
Color categoriesCATEGORIES
A: Almandine Garnet
Red / pink
B: Rhodolite Garnet
Red / pink / Purple
DISTINGUISHING TOOLS · 3 ITEMS
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Almandine Garnet and Rhodolite Garnet in practice.
Note: this page is auto-generated from published GIA / CGL reference values. Individual stones, treatments, and synthetics may fall outside these ranges. For a definitive identification, consult an accredited gem laboratory.

