Andradite (var: "Demantoid") (recent find)

Item Description

Recently, there was a discovery of some of outstanding quality Demantoid Garnets in Madagascar. The quality and color of these crystals rivals pieces I have seen from Italy, Namibia or even Russia. This specimen hosts a few very sharp, lustrous, excellent quality, green color, gemmy, dodecahedral Demantoid crystals with Qurtz on a contrasting matrix. The luster on these crystals is good for Demantoid, and the largest crystal measures 8 mm across, which is good sized for the find. I cannot say for certain if there will be more of these pieces, but this is a great opportunity for Garnet collectors to purchase a fine quality display specimen of this highly sought after variety of Andradite. Please note that under halogen lights, the crystals appear a bit ligher in color, but under mercury bulbs, the color is very intense! Despite a bit of damage, the piece is still in great shape overall, and on a worldwide scale, Demantoids are not common on the market with crystals of this size, color and quality. Valued at $700 in the inventory.