If you're passionate about rare gemstones, you’ve likely heard of demantoid garnet—one of the most brilliant and sought-after green gems in the world. With its exceptional fire, vivid color, and rarity, demantoid is a treasure among collectors and fine jewelry enthusiasts.

In this blog, we'll explore everything about demantoid garnet, from its origin and characteristics to how to identify and care for it. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast or a jewelry investor, this guide will help you appreciate this stunning green jewel.

What is Demantoid Garnet?

Demantoid is a rare variety of andradite garnet, known for its incredible brilliance and dispersion (fire). In fact, demantoid’s dispersion value (0.057) is even higher than that of a diamond, making it one of the most fiery gemstones available.

Key Characteristics of Demantoid GarnetPropertyDescriptionChemical CompositionCa₃Fe₂(SiO₄)₃ (Calcium Iron Silicate)ColorVivid green to yellow-greenMohs Hardness6.5 – 7Refractive Index (RI)1.880 – 1.889Dispersion (Fire)0.057 (higher than diamond!)LusterAdamantine (diamond-like)Crystal SystemCubicWhat Gives Demantoid Its Green Color?

The vibrant green of demantoid comes from iron and chromium. The finest demantoids display a rich emerald-green hue, while others may exhibit yellowish or brownish undertones.

Brilliance and Fire

Demantoid is prized for its high dispersion, meaning it exhibits dazzling flashes of rainbow-colored light when moved under the light. This exceptional fire makes it one of the most visually striking gemstones in the world.

Where is Demantoid Found?

Demantoid was first discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in the mid-1800s and quickly became a favorite of Russian royalty and jewelers like Carl Fabergé. Today, demantoid is mined in several locations worldwide:

Major Demantoid Sources

• Russia (Ural Mountains) – Produces the most valuable demantoids, often containing horsetail inclusions (a hallmark of authenticity and rarity).

• Namibia – Produces bright green stones, often cleaner and larger than Russian ones but without horsetail inclusions.

• Madagascar, Iran, Italy, Afghanistan – Smaller deposits of varying quality.

Horsetail Inclusions – A Mark of Authenticity

One of the most distinctive and desirable features of Russian demantoid is its horsetail inclusions—golden, radiating fibers of byssolite. Unlike other gemstones where inclusions lower value, horsetail inclusions increase the desirability of demantoid, as they serve as a natural fingerprint of its Russian origin.

Demantoid vs. Tsavorite Garnet – What’s the Difference?

Both demantoid and tsavorite are green garnets, but they differ in several ways:

FeatureDemantoidTsavoriteTypeAndradite GarnetGrossular GarnetColorVivid green, yellow-greenPure green, deep greenBrillianceHigher dispersion, fierySlightly less fireInclusionsHorsetail inclusions (in Russian stones)Fewer inclusionsRarityRarer, especially Russian materialMore available

Treatments & Synthetic Demantoid

• Natural demantoid is typically untreated. Mild heating may sometimes be used to enhance color, but this is rare.

• Synthetic demantoid exists but is uncommon. Be cautious of imitations like green cubic zirconia or YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet), which attempt to mimic its brilliance.

Demantoid Garnet Pricing & Value

Demantoid is one of the most expensive garnets due to its rarity. Here are the key value factors:

1. Color – Rich green (especially Russian) is the most valuable.

2. Clarity – Clean stones are rare, but slight inclusions are acceptable.

3. Horsetail Inclusions – Increase value for Russian demantoids.

4. Size – Large demantoids (over 2 carats) are extremely rare and costly.

5. Origin – Russian demantoid commands the highest prices.

💎 Price Estimates:

• High-quality Russian demantoid: $5,000+ per carat (for top color and horsetail inclusions)

• Namibian/Madagascan demantoid: $500 - $2,500 per carat

How to Care for Demantoid Garnet

Due to its moderate hardness (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale), demantoid requires careful handling: ✅ Avoid ultrasonic cleaners (it’s softer than sapphire or diamond).

✅ Protect it from scratches by storing it separately from harder gemstones.

✅ Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush.

✅ Avoid extreme temperature changes that could cause fractures.

Demantoid in Jewelry

Demantoid’s fiery brilliance and rich color make it a prized choice for high-end jewelry. It is commonly set in:

• Antique-style rings

• Earrings

• Pendants

• Luxury designer jewelry

Since demantoid is rare, owning a piece of demantoid jewelry is both an investment and a statement of elegance.

Final Thoughts – Why Demantoid Garnet is a Must-Have Gemstone

Demantoid garnet is one of the rarest and most brilliant gemstones available, with Russian stones featuring horsetail inclusions being the most sought after. Whether you’re a collector, a jeweler, or someone who appreciates rare beauty, demantoid is a gemstone worth adding to your collection.

🌟 Are you looking to purchase demantoid jewelry or learn more about gemstones? Contact us today to explore our exclusive collection of fine gems and jewelry! 🌟