Interesting Facts About Demantoid Garnet
Did you know that demantoid garnet contains more “fire”, or color dispersion, than diamonds01?
The gemstone was discovered in the Ural Mountains in Russia in 1868.
The name of the stone comes from the Dutch word “demant”, which means diamond-like.
It is notable for its horsetail inclusions, which are golden fibers of chrysotile, which increase the stone’s value and prove its Russian origin02.
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Where Demantoid Garnet Comes From
Demantoid garnet was initially discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1868.
This gemstone instantly became a favorite of the Russian Tsars.
Furthermore, the legendary jeweler Peter Carl Faberge used the stones, which are often referred to as “green diamonds”, to represent the natural landscapes in Russia in his works03.
This variant of garnet is the most valuable variety of andradite garnet.
The gemstone has a color range from pale yellowish-green to a deep, vivid emerald green.
The green colors are caused by iron and chromium04.
The stone also has high dispersion, which is even higher than that of a diamond, giving it its incredible “fire” or color dispersion abilities05.
Russia still serves as the most prestigious source for “horsetail” demantoid garnet specimens06.
There are other deposits found in Namibia in the 1990s. Namibian demantoid garnets are often larger. They also lack the golden inclusions, but have great clarity07.
Other locations where scant quantities are found include Iran, Italy, and even Madagascar08.
How It Is Processed or How It Is Made
Demantoid garnet is a natural gemstone found in metamorphic rocks.
The initial process starts with extraction from alluvial deposits or host serpentine rock09.
Demantoid garnets are rarely treated, compared to other gems that need treatments to be enhanced.
Some Russian variants of the gemstone, however, undergo low-heat treatment for the improvement of their green saturation and dissolve brown tints whilst not damaging the prized horsetail inclusions10.
As for the cutting process, lapidaries use round brilliant or cushion cuts to maximize light return.
The hardness of the stone is also a factor to consider when cutting; hence, lapidaries must be precise11.
Why It Is Expensive and How Rare It Is
The high price value of the demantoid garnet comes from how it is the rarest and most valuable of all garnets.
Furthermore, the price of this gemstone stems from the extremely scarce supply of large, high-quality crystals12.
Specimens over two carats are considered world-class rarities.
Additionally, the price is driven by origin and its golden inclusions13.
As for Russian demantoid garnets, they serve as the “gold standard”.
This is even heightened due to their unique horsetail inclusions that are rare and historically significant.
Thus, the value of Russian demantoid garnets heighten even more13.
Examples of Jewelry Made From This Gemstone
Demantoid garnet is known for its utilization in antique and high-fashion jewelry due to its history and “fire”. Some notable pieces are:
- Russian Salamander Brooch – It is an antique piece known during the late 1800s Victorian and Belle Époque eras14
- The Faberge Miniature Egg Pendant – It is crafted by Peter Carl Faberge. The piece was crafted in 18k gold. This egg pendant is encrusted with vivid green Russian demantoids set in the design of tiny stars15.
- The Green Dragon Bracelet (Smithsonian) – It is a modern jewelry piece found in the National Museum of Natural History. This is a yellow gold bracelet with large, brilliant-cut Namibian demantoid garnet stones16.
Demantoid Garnet’s Market Value (Price per Carat)
As of 2026, the demantoid garnet still holds the title of the most expensive garnet variety.
As for standard gemstones, the prices range from $500 to $2,500 per carat.
As for premium Russian specimens with bright color and horsetail inclusions, the prices range from $5,000 to $15,000 per carat.
The prices also vary depending on its size.
Furthermore, gem-quality stones over two carats are so rare that this heightens their price even more17.
