Lot of 5 round almandine garnet micro cabochons, approximately 2.85 mm in diameter. Deep red to reddish-purple with enough transparency to glow under spotlight. Millimetric format for precision jewelry: pavé setting, multi-stone configurations, or filigree in 925 silver.
Item details
| Mineral |
Almandine garnet (iron and aluminum nesosilicate) |
| Dimensions |
~2.85 mm diameter × ~2 mm height. Variation of ±0.2 mm |
| Shape and back |
Round, flat or slightly concave back (characteristic of micro pieces) |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7.5 Mohs — very hard; compatible with pressure or prong setting |
| Origin |
Material acquired in lapidary wholesale market |
| Treatment |
Untreated. Color due to native iron oxides in the mineral structure |
| Item type |
Lot of 5 micro pieces |
This specific piece
At 2.85 mm, the almandine maintains a deep, saturated red — dark red with a consistent wine hue throughout the lot. Under magnification, the transparency is partial: light produces an internal glow that, with spot lighting, turns each micro cabochon into a red point of light. All five pieces have the same size and color, suitable for symmetrical multi-stone configurations.
How almandine garnet is formed
Almandine (Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃) crystallizes in high-grade metamorphic rocks under high pressure and temperature. The cubic system produces crystals without defined cleavage (only conchoidal fracture), which makes it exceptionally resistant: at 7.5 Mohs, it surpasses quartz. The deep red is due to ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) content; the higher the content, the darker and more wine-colored the red.
What setting it works for
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Pavé or bead-set in 925 silver — 7.5 Mohs hardness supports pressure or graver setting; ideal for multi-stone configurations in rings.
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Rings with color accent — 3 mm is the standard size for accent stones; almandine red works as a color point in geometric designs or filigree.
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Precision wire wrap — very fine wire (28-30 gauge) for miniature pendant or earring with high color impact.
Almandine garnet in tradition
Used in jewelry since ancient Egypt (5,000 years ago) and extensively by the Romans in signet rings. The name "almandine" alludes to the Anatolian city of Alabanda, the main cutting center in antiquity. In crystal tradition, it is associated with vitality and grounding.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
Frequently asked questions
Are all 5 pieces the same size and color?
Yes, selected for similar size (~2.85 mm) and consistent color; natural variations of ±0.2 mm are possible.
Can they be used in an everyday ring?
At 7.5 Mohs, it is perfectly suitable for everyday wear, including high-exposure rings.
Are they suitable for granulation (goldsmith granulation)?
Yes. The thermal resistance of almandine is compatible with silver soldering temperatures; a technique documented in Etruscan and medieval jewelry.
How to care for it?
Almandine garnet can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam. More at jewelry care.
More about garnet: properties, meaning, and uses. See also: cabochon collection · handmade rings.
