Andradite (var. Topazolite), Andradite (var. Demantoid)

This specimen features golden-yellow topazolite crystals that have grown in patches over an earlier generation of micro demantoid—a green variety of andradite garnet—that carpets nearly the entire surface. The term topazolite is used for this variety of andradite due to its resemblance to topaz in both colour and transparency. The sharp dodecahedral crystals, up to 3 mm in size, exhibit a superb glassy lustre. The back of the specimen has been sawn flat, making it good for display. This piece would be a great addition to any garnet suite or California minerals collection.