Andradite

specimen number:
2062910

location:
San Benito Co., California, USA

description:
Lustrous green translucent crystals of andradite, this the variety known as demantoid, measuring to 0.9 cm in size across the top of matrix. The matrix is mostly covered with tiny crystals of andradite. There are maybe seven good large crystals present. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

Demantoid, a green variety of andradite garnet, is found in the serpentinite and ultramafic rock environments of the New Idria district in San Benito County, California, particularly near Santa Rita Peak. Geologically, these green garnets form through hydrothermal alteration and serpentinization within regional ophiolite complexes. Historically, while San Benito County is most famous for benitoite, the rare demantoid occurrences have long attracted mineral collectors and small-scale prospectors who recover small, vibrant green crystals from veins and weathered rock, contributing a unique chapter to the region's mining heritage.

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