Where is Andradite found?
Andradite
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Open the appAndradite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Andradite
Ural Mountains, Russia
Famous for producing high-quality Demantoid garnets, particularly from the Bobrovka River area.
Val Malenco, Italy
Known for black Melanite garnets and some green Demantoid.
Namibia
Significant source of Demantoid garnets, often with a more yellowish-green hue than Russian material.
Iran
Produces Demantoid garnets, sometimes with a distinct yellowish-green color.
Arizona, USA
Localities for Melanite and other varieties of Andradite.
Mexico
Known for Topazolite (yellow Andradite) and other varieties.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Focus on areas with contact metamorphic rocks, especially skarns formed from the alteration of impure limestones or dolomites by igneous intrusions. Serpentinites and alkaline igneous rocks are also potential hosts.
- Associated Minerals. Look for Andradite in association with minerals such as epidote, chlorite, calcite, magnetite, vesuvianite, and diopside, which are common in its formation environments.
- Crystal Habit. Andradite often forms well-developed dodecahedral or trapezohedral crystals. Identifying these characteristic crystal forms can aid in identification in the field.
- Luster and Color. The vitreous to adamantine luster, especially of Demantoid, can be a key indicator. The range of colors, particularly the vibrant green of Demantoid, is also distinctive.
- Hardness. Andradite's hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale means it will scratch glass and steel, which can be a useful field test.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Green, yellow, brown, black, reddish-brown
- Luster:
- Vitreous to adamantine
- Streak:
- White
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