Crossword Genius

Head off, dropping strange red stone (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

garnet

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'red stone' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for garnet that I've seen before include "Semi-precious stone of deep transparent red" , "Semi-precious stone of argent type" , "Precious stone, usually red" , "Glassy red, yellow or green gemstone" , "Hard glassy mineral used as a gemstone" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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