A chain of linked line of apple-green Garnets on a Rodingite/Serpentine matrix. The specimen is from the old locality of Val Malenco and was collected prior to 1905. The form and color of these Andradites are classic and immediately recognizable. In very good condition as seen, just one very small chip is noted, the crystals reach up to 1.3 CM in a 4.7 CM line. The luster is waxy and the crystals are all transparent to translucent. In person the color is close to a good deep Peridot hue.
Andradite var. Demantoid-Topazolite
stock #20.1-468
Val Malenco, Sondrio Province
Lombardy,
Italy
6.4 x 2.7 x 1.5 CM (cabinet)
price: $390
new year 2021
Classic Garnet specimen from the Malenco Valley of Italy collected in the late 1890's. There are some pale yellowish and darker green Andradite crystals on this matrix which has a tiny bit of adhering Asbestos. This is more Demantoid than Topaziolite despite the label that accompanies the specimen. The Garnets are translucent to slightly transparent, typically showing some rounded areas and what seems like face etching. These are well-exposed from the matrix and in good condition. Garnets from this very old mineralized zone have an immediately recognizable look unlike any others. A choice old European garnet.
Andradite var. Demantoid- classic locality
stock #18.1-168
Sferiun Asbestos Mine, Vallone del Cengiaccio, Vaitellina, Sondrio Provi
Lombardy,
Italy
6.8 x 5.9 x 2.9 CM (cabinet)
price: $475
Spring update
Choice Val Malenco Garnet specimen with several waxy green rounded Demantoid crystals perched on typical Amphibole matrix. The elongation of the 2.1 CM main crystal is impressive, and shows complex rounded faces. Classic specimen, these have always been prized and this is an older piece, sawn on the back as is common to enable collecting intact. The matrix has some cracks that may be old repairs or typical weakness in the fibrous structure of the matrix. Well above average quality best appreciated in person
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