The Connoisseur's Guide to Demantoid: Rarity, Origins, and Investment Value

Among the vast spectrum of colored gemstones, few captivate the true connoisseur quite like demantoid garnet. This exceptional variety of andradite garnet possesses a brilliance and fire that surpasses even diamond – boasting a dispersion of 0.057 compared to diamond's 0.044 – earning it the name "demantoid," meaning "diamond-like" in Dutch. First discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1868, these vivid green treasures quickly became favorites of the Russian Imperial court and were prominently featured in Fabergé's most prestigious creations. For the discerning collector, loose demantoids represent one of gemology's most compelling investment opportunities. Unlike their counterparts set...