Comparison · Minerals
Almandine vs Andradite
Almandine and Andradite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Both sit near Mohs 7–7.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Almandine and Andradite
- Both sit near Mohs 7–7.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in brown and black, but Almandine also comes in red and Andradite also comes in green and yellow.
Almandine vs Andradite properties
| Property | Almandine | Andradite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 7–7.5 | 6.5–7 |
| Luster | Vitreous to resinous | Vitreous to resinous/adamantine |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Transparent to translucent |
| Specific gravity | 3.9–4.3 | 3.8–3.9 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Cubic |
| Common colors | Deep red, Reddish brown, Purplish red, Black | Yellow-green (demantoid), Brown, Black (melanite), Yellow |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $2–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Almandine and Andradite trade in a similar range, around $20.
About Almandine
Almandine is the iron-rich end member of the garnet group, with the formula Fe3Al2(SiO4)3, and it is the most common garnet found in metamorphic rocks. It typically forms deep red to brownish-red crystals in mica schists and gneisses, distinguished by its density and classic dodecahedral crystal form. Almandine is the garnet most often cut for inexpensive faceted gemstones sold as "garnet" in jewelry.
About Andradite
Andradite is a calcium-iron garnet, Ca3Fe2(SiO4)3, one of six species making up the isomorphous garnet group. It occurs in shades of yellow-green, brown, and black depending on trace elements, and includes the gem varieties demantoid, colored green by chromium, and topazolite, a golden-yellow form. Its isometric habit and high refractive index give faceted stones exceptional fire, occasionally surpassing that of diamond.
Almandine vs Andradite FAQ
Is Almandine the same as Andradite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7–7.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Almandine from Andradite?
Both sit near Mohs 7–7.5, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in brown and black, but Almandine also comes in red and Andradite also comes in green and yellow.
Which is harder, Almandine or Andradite?
Almandine is harder: Mohs 7–7.5 against Mohs 6.5–7 for Andradite.
Which is more valuable, Almandine or Andradite?
Typical specimens of Almandine and Andradite trade in a similar range, around $20.
