Description

This is a fantastic spessartine from a rare locality. It is a large crystal, completely crystallized all-around, with complex crystallization patterns over all of the surfaces. As it reflects the light, the stepped, parallel faces are remarkable. It is a specimen that jumps to life as one examines it under the light. In excellent condition (sparse small chips upon close inspection, insignificant to the specimen). A great specimen – what a garnet!

From the collection of Jeff Rondello, he acquired it from Cal Graeber.

A word about the photographs and appearance of this specimen. This spessartine is dark and yet can look different in different lighting conditions. The photographs here are meant to convey the lustre, the incredible detail, the superb internal colour when well lit from behind, and also the dark appearance in lower light conditions. When looking at this specimen under modest light, it is dark red, with glints of transparent red (as shown in the last photos). Under display lights, the lustre is great. Examined with strong light from behind such as a phone light, this crystal is intense red around the edges.

While etching was involved, the specific mechanism that resulted in the final forms of these etched crystals remains a mystery.