Yellowish-green to intense emerald-green with fiery rainbow dispersion flashes.
Chemical formula
Ca₃Fe³⁺₂(SiO₄)₃ + Cr³⁺
Garnet • Andradite (Ugrandite Series)
Andradite Garnet (Topazolite & Melanite)
Honey-yellow to olive-green (Topazolite) and jet black (titanium-rich Melanite).
Ca₃Fe³⁺₂(SiO₄)₃ (Calcium Iron Silicate)Mohs 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Garnet |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Andradite (Ugrandite Series) |
| Gemological Variety | Andradite (Topazolite, Melanite & Olive Andradite) |
| Chemical Composition | Ca₃Fe³⁺₂(SiO₄)₃ (Calcium Iron Silicate) |
| Crystal System | Isometric |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.80 – 3.90 |
| Refractive Index | 1.880 – 1.895 (Over the limits of standard refractometers) |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Honey-yellow to olive-green (Topazolite) and jet black (titanium-rich Melanite).
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Forms in serpentinites, skarns, and contact metamorphic zones in Pakistan (Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), Italy, and Mali.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Possesses adamant-like luster and extreme dispersion (0.057), higher than diamond (0.044).
Fine Jewelry Applications
Collector rings, pendants, and earrings protected from heavy abrasion.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Generally untreated; low-temperature heat is occasionally used on certain Russian/African material and must be disclosed.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Because hardness is 6.5–7.0 Mohs, store separately from harder gems and clean with warm soapy water.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Named after Brazilian mineralogist José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva; prized by connoisseurs of rare optical phenomena.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Garnet