SPI Supplies Individual Microanalysis Standard Item, Minerals Group, Pyrope

This is a reflected light micrograph of polished, carbon coated pyrope garnet crystals. The identifying etched label, which is a feature of our standards, is invaluable for navigating in an electron beam instrument. This pyrope is one of the so-called "indicator minerals" prized when prospecting for diamonds. In fact this Cr-poor garnet comes from a suite of garnets from a diamond mine in South Africa and is typical of a kimberlite association. As can be seen, the crystals are robust, taking a good polish. The name pyrope refers to its "fiery color" (Greek pyro - fire).