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4.6" Demantoid Garnets In Serpentine Matrix - Italy
This is a beautiful aggregation of andradite var. demantoid crystals on a fibrous serpentine matrix. This specimen was collected from Malenco Valley in Italy. The demantoid crystals have a beautiful non-metallic luster and sparkle when placed under light.
Please note: The fibrous mineral that's tied in with the serpentine is believed to be related to the asbestos family. Washing hands after handling and keeping the specimen away from your mouth, are both highly recommended.
About Demantoid Garnets
Demantoid is the vivid green, chromium-rich variety of andradite garnet, renowned for its exceptionally high dispersion (0.057), which produces spectral “fire” that exceeds that of diamond. First described from the metamorphosed serpentinite bodies of Russia’s Ural Mountains in the mid-19th century, it often contains radiating chrysotile “horsetail” inclusions that are both diagnostic of Russian material and valuable indicators of natural formation conditions. Additional occurrences in Namibia and Madagascar produce comparable specimens, though Ural deposits remain the benchmark for saturated coloration and classic inclusion patterns. Formed under narrowly defined temperature–pressure regimes in ultramafic and contact-metamorphic settings, demantoid’s chromium-induced color, distinctive internal structures, and remarkable optical properties make it one of the most scientifically important and visually extraordinary members of the garnet group.
Demantoid is the vivid green, chromium-rich variety of andradite garnet, renowned for its exceptionally high dispersion (0.057), which produces spectral “fire” that exceeds that of diamond. First described from the metamorphosed serpentinite bodies of Russia’s Ural Mountains in the mid-19th century, it often contains radiating chrysotile “horsetail” inclusions that are both diagnostic of Russian material and valuable indicators of natural formation conditions. Additional occurrences in Namibia and Madagascar produce comparable specimens, though Ural deposits remain the benchmark for saturated coloration and classic inclusion patterns. Formed under narrowly defined temperature–pressure regimes in ultramafic and contact-metamorphic settings, demantoid’s chromium-induced color, distinctive internal structures, and remarkable optical properties make it one of the most scientifically important and visually extraordinary members of the garnet group.
Please note: The fibrous mineral that's tied in with the serpentine is believed to be related to the asbestos family. Washing hands after handling and keeping the specimen away from your mouth, are both highly recommended.
SPECIES
Andradite var. Demantoid
LOCATION
Campo Franscia, Malenco Valley, Italy
SIZE
4.6 x 1.5"
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#280744
