Description
Grade A Red Garnet on Feldspar – Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
This Grade A Red Garnet on Feldspar is a genuine natural mineral specimen from the renowned Skardu region of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. The photograph shows the exact crystal specimen you will receive, carefully selected for its rich colour contrast and well-defined crystal formation. Full sizing is available in the listing photos for accurate scale and display reference.
Each specimen includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, confirming it as a genuine natural mineral example.
Mineral Species & Crystal Structure
The red garnet featured in this specimen is most commonly classified as Almandine Garnet, a member of the garnet group of nesosilicate minerals with the chemical formula Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃. Garnets crystallise in the isometric (cubic) crystal system, typically forming dodecahedral or trapezohedral crystal habits with symmetrical, well-defined faces.
Almandine is known for its deep red to reddish-brown colouration, produced by iron within its crystal structure. In high-quality specimens, the crystals may show vitreous lustre and varying degrees of translucency depending on thickness and internal structure. Subtle internal inclusions or growth zoning may be visible, reflecting natural crystallisation processes within metamorphic host rocks.
The garnet crystals are set within a feldspar matrix. Feldspar belongs to the tectosilicate mineral group and commonly crystallises in either the monoclinic or triclinic crystal systems, depending on species. The pale feldspar host provides striking visual contrast to the darker red garnet crystals.
Geological Origin – Skardu Region
The Skardu area lies within the Karakoram mountain range, part of a geologically complex zone formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This intense tectonic activity created high-grade metamorphic environments ideal for garnet formation.
Red garnets from this region typically form within metamorphic schists and gneisses, where elevated temperature and pressure conditions allow aluminium- and iron-rich minerals to recrystallise into well-formed garnet crystals. Feldspar commonly coexists in these rocks, contributing to attractive matrix specimens prized by collectors.
Pakistan is internationally recognised for producing fine garnet specimens, especially from mountainous northern deposits where geological conditions supported crystal growth over millions of years.
Physical Characteristics & Display Appeal
This Grade A specimen displays:
- Rich natural red garnet crystals
- Well-defined crystal faces
- Vitreous lustre
- Attractive feldspar matrix contrast
- Natural, untreated mineral formation
The geometric symmetry of garnet combined with the lighter feldspar background creates a classic collector’s piece suitable for display cabinets, mineral collections or geological study sets.
No artificial colour enhancements, dyes or treatments have been applied. The specimen remains in its natural state.
Collector, Educational & Gifting Significance
Red Garnet on Feldspar from Skardu is highly regarded by mineral collectors for its aesthetic appeal and geological importance. Garnet’s cubic crystal system makes it an excellent example for studying crystal symmetry and metamorphic mineral formation.
This specimen is suitable for:
- Mineral and crystal collections
- Educational geology displays
- Birthstone collections for January
- Cabinet display specimens
- Unique natural gifts for collectors
In historical and cultural traditions, garnet has been symbolically associated with strength and vitality. These associations are cultural interpretations and are not presented as scientific or medical claims.
Authenticity & Assurance
- 100% genuine natural Red Garnet (Almandine) on Feldspar
- Sourced from Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
- Grade A collector specimen
- Includes Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card
- The exact specimen shown in the photographs is the one you will receive
This Grade A Red Garnet on Feldspar represents a classic metamorphic mineral pairing from one of Pakistan’s most respected mineral-producing regions, offering both geological significance and strong display appeal for serious collectors.
