superb "river" of Gem Demantoid Garnet on matrix! (excellent old classic)

Item Description

Superb, bright, gemmy olive-green andradite variety demantoid garnets on this fantastic large, sculptural and aesthetic specimen from this famed extinct asbestos mine in the Malenco Valley. Matrix demantoids are among the rarest of garnets, and these bright and gemmy crystals from the Malenco Valley are certainly the most desirable of the variety and are Alpine classics. The fabulous large "necklace" of undamaged crystals is 6.5 cm long and the short "necklace" is 2.6 cm long. The largest crystal (isolated) is 9 mm. The serpentine matrix has been sawed on the base and back to enhance the dramatic display quality. These specimens are very difficult to obtain in todays market. Valued at $2000 or more and worth it, for size, richness and exceptional quality. We see these at Munich occasionally at higher prices yet. Most were found 40-50 years ago, even, or more.