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Garnet Abrasive for Blasting and Waterjet

Garnet abrasive is used for blasting and waterjet cutting. Compare grades and sellers.

Updated Nov 1, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Blast suppliers and waterjet dealers sell garnet by the bag or pallet. Hardware and farm stores may stock small bags.

Professional insight

Blasters pick garnet by mesh size. The coating spec sets the profile.

Coarser mesh numbers cut deeper profiles but leave rougher surfaces.
Waterjet garnet needs tight sizing to protect the nozzle.
Ask for a data sheet with free silica content.
Damp garnet clogs pots. Check bags for tears.

Check the label

Mesh size, such as 30/60, 80 or 120.
Use stated: blasting or waterjet cutting.
Mineral type, often almandine garnet.
Free silica content on the data sheet.
Bag weight, such as 50 lb or 25 kg.
Batch or lot number for quality complaints.

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Garnet mesh sizes

General guide. Match your coating or machine spec.
Mesh	Typical use
20/40 or 30/60	Heavy coatings, rust and deeper profile
80	Light rust, mill scale, thin coatings, common waterjet grade
120	Fine finish and fine waterjet cutting

Garnet abrasive facts

Common mineral: Almandine garnet
Mohs hardness: About 7.5 to 8
Common uses: Blasting, waterjet cutting, filtration

Common uses

Steel surface prep before painting.
Paint and rust removal on tanks and pipes.
Waterjet cutting of metal, stone and glass.
Wet or dustless blasting systems.
Water filter beds in some systems.

Safe use

Wear an approved blast helmet and hearing protection.
Keep bystanders away from the blast zone.
Test old paint for lead before you blast it.
Store bags dry, off the floor, under cover.

Ways to save

Buy by the pallet if you blast often.
Recover and screen garnet in closed blast rooms.
Match mesh to the job to avoid wasted media.
Ask about freight costs before ordering bulk.

Common questions

Is garnet better than sand for blasting?: Garnet makes less dust and has low free silica. Silica sand is restricted in many places.
Can I reuse garnet abrasive?: Often a few times, if it is screened and kept dry.
Which mesh works for waterjet cutting?: 80 mesh is common. Check your machine maker's spec.
Can I use blasting garnet in a waterjet?: Use waterjet grade garnet. Blast grades may clog the nozzle.