Demantoid garnet, with its exceptional fire and vibrant green color, is a gemstone that captivates many. However, its resemblance to other green gemstones can make identification challenging. Here's a simple guide to help you distinguish a genuine demantoid garnet:
The Unique Characteristics of Demantoid Garnet
- Color: Demantoid garnets typically exhibit a vivid, grassy green color, often compared to that of an emerald. However, the demantoid's green tends to be more yellowish.
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Fire: The most distinctive characteristic of a demantoid garnet is its exceptional fire. This is due to its high dispersion, which means it breaks up white light into its component colors, creating a rainbow-like effect. This fire is often compared to that of a diamond.
- Horsetail Inclusions: While inclusions are generally undesirable in gemstones, in the case of demantoid garnets, they can be a positive identifier. Horsetail inclusions, which resemble the tail of a horse, are often found in demantoid garnets.
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Hardness: Demantoid garnets have a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making them relatively durable.
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Refractive Index: Demantoid garnets have a high refractive index, which is a measure of how much light is bent as it passes through the stone.
How to Identify a Demantoid Garnet
- Examine the Color: The color should be a vibrant green, with a hint of yellow. Avoid stones that are too dark or too light.
- Check for Fire: Look for the distinctive rainbow-like flashes of color. Demantoid garnets typically exhibit strong fire.
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Inspect for Inclusions: While not always present, horsetail inclusions are a strong indicator of a demantoid garnet.
- Consider the Price: Demantoid garnets are relatively rare and often command a higher price than other green gemstones. Be wary of exceptionally low prices.
Demantoid Garnet vs. Emerald
Demantoid garnets are often compared to emeralds. While both are green gemstones, there are key differences:
- Color: Emerald green tends to be a deeper, bluer green, while demantoid green is often more yellowish.
- Fire: Demantoid garnets exhibit significantly more fire than emeralds.
- Inclusions: Emeralds often have visible inclusions, while demantoid garnets may have horsetail inclusions.
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