Dark brown andradite on green matrix from Pakistan

Characteristics Andradite is a mineral belonging to the garnet group, a calcium iron silicate. It occurs as well-formed crystals, often in the shape of a rhombic dodecahedron or a deltoidal icositetrahedron, as well as in massive or granular forms. Typical andradite specimens are characterized by a vitreous or resinous luster, and their color can be very diverse, which is one of its most recognizable features. Physical Properties Andradite's hardness on the Mohs scale is 6.5-7, making it a relatively hard mineral. It has a white streak. The density of andradite is approximately 3.8 g/cm³. This mineral is transparent to translucent, and its luster is vitreous or resinous. Colors and Varieties Andradite exhibits a wide spectrum of colors, from yellow, through yellowish-green, emerald-green, dark green, to brown, reddish-brown, yellowish-brown, grayish-black, and black. The most well-known varieties are: demantoid (emerald-green, prized in jewelry), melanite (black, opaque), and topazolite (yellow to yellowish-brown). History and Name Andradite was described in 1800. The mineral's name comes from the Portuguese mineralogist José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva, who first described this mineral. Uses Andradite, especially its emerald-green variety demantoid, is valued in jewelry as an ornamental stone. Other varieties, such as melanite, also find use in jewelry. Due to its hardness, andradite can also be used as an abrasive material, though to a lesser extent than other garnets.

Diagnostic features

Identification Andradite can be identified by its characteristic colors, vitreous or resinous luster, and typical crystal forms, such as rhombic dodecahedra. A hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale and a white streak are also important diagnostic features. Distinguishing from Similar Minerals Andradite can be confused with other garnets, such as grossular or almandine. It is usually distinguished from grossular by its darker color and the presence of iron. It differs from almandine in its chemical composition (lack of magnesium and higher calcium content) and often in its color hue. The demantoid variety can be confused with emerald, but demantoid has a higher refractive index and a characteristic "fiery" brilliance. Crystal Forms Andradite most commonly forms well-developed crystals with a rhombic dodecahedral or deltoidal icositetrahedral habit. It also occurs in massive, granular, or radiating aggregate forms.

Formation environment

Genesis Andradite forms in metamorphic rocks, especially in skarns, which are created by the metasomatic alteration of carbonate rocks (limestones, dolomites) in contact with magmatic intrusions. It can also occur in some igneous rocks, such as syenites and serpentinites. Mineral Associations Andradite often co-occurs with minerals such as: calcite, epidote, diopside, vesuvianite, magnetite, chlorites, and quartz. In skarns, it is often accompanied by other garnets and ore minerals. Localities Important andradite deposits are found in Russia (Urals, where demantoid was discovered), Italy (Val Malenco, Piedmont), the United States (California, Arizona), Mexico, Madagascar, Namibia, and Iran. In Poland, andradite occurs in the Sudetes, near Strzegom and Kłodzko.

For the collector

Quality Criteria The most prized andradite specimens are those with intense, uniform coloration, high transparency, and distinct luster. Crystals with well-formed faces and no visible inclusions are particularly sought after. For demantoid, an intense emerald-green color and the characteristic "horsetail" inclusions of amphibole asbestos fibers are important. Popular Localities The most prized demantoid specimens come from the Urals in Russia. Large black melanites are sought after from Italy. Topazolite specimens from Italy and Pakistan are also highly regarded by collectors.