Spessartine Garnet Crystal

$644.61
Chemical FormulaMn₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃
Crystal SystemCubic
Mohs Hardness7–7.5
Specific Gravity4.19
LusterVitreous
TransparencyTransparent to translucent

Mandarin-orange spessartine — manganese garnet — from this famous Minas Gerais locality is among the most vivid specimens in mineralogy. The color is the saturated orange of molten…

9 in stock

SKU: TC-MIN-0290
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Description

The universe has 13.8 billion years of history. Some of it fits in your hand. Mandarin-orange spessartine — manganese garnet — from this famous Minas Gerais locality is among the most vivid specimens in mineralogy. The color is the saturated orange of molten glass, the luster adamantine. Collectors waited decades for material this clean.

This specimen originates from Navegador Mine, Minas Gerais, Brazil, one of the world’s most significant localities for this type of material. Collectors and scientists have drawn from this region for generations, and for good reason: the combination of geological conditions here produces specimens of exceptional quality and clarity.

Every specimen is unique. Photographs approximate the visual experience, but the real thing — its weight, its luster under a raking light, the way it catches the corner of your eye — can only be experienced directly.

Formation

This specimen formed through geological processes operating over timescales that dwarf human history. The specific combination of chemistry, temperature, pressure, and time at this locality produced material of exceptional quality that makes it a valued addition to any serious collection.

Locality

Spessartine Garnet Crystal from Navegador Mine, Minas Gerais, Brazil. This locality is known for producing specimens of exceptional quality.

Collector Notes

Dust with a soft brush; avoid water for soft minerals (hardness below 4).