Andradite Garnet var. Melanite (rare CA classic)

Item Description

An exceptional grouping of highly lustrous larger Melanite garnets is dramatically perched atop the densely populated matrix on this adorable miniature from the well-known New Idria Mining District, near the famous Dallas Gem Mine (Benitoite). The sharp, modified jet-black dodecahedrons reach 1.5 cm, which is large for the District. Melanite is the black Ti-bearing variety of Andradite Garnet. This District is famed for world class Benitoite, Neptunite and Topazolite (topaz like) Andradite Garnets. These are much more rare, and when found are often 1-5 mm. This is a giant, and beyond having large crystals is also complete all-around and essentialy pristine. A really fine California garnet miniature, distinct from most others. You just cannot find such things for sale. This is from an old California collection mostly assembled in the 1980s and 1990s.