Andradite from Dalnegorsk, Russia – Reddish-Brown Garnet Crystals

Attractive andradite specimen from Dalnegorsk in Primorsky Krai, Russia. Numerous closely intergrown, reddish-brown to orange-brown garnet crystals cover large parts of the surface. The well-formed crystals display clearly visible crystal faces and an attractive luster. A richly crystallized collector’s specimen from a well-known Russian mineral district, with a sawn reverse.

Andradite from Dalnegorsk, Russia

This mineral specimen comes from the well-known Dalnegorsk mining district in Primorsky Krai in the Russian Far East. The region is known for its diverse mineral deposits and numerous attractive crystal specimens. Minerals found in this district include andradite, a calcium-iron mineral belonging to the garnet group.

Particularly striking are the numerous reddish-brown to orange-brown andradite crystals. The smaller crystals are closely intergrown and cover large portions of the specimen’s surface. Their clearly visible crystal faces reflect light from different angles, creating an attractive overall appearance.

A yellowish-green matrix is visible in some areas between the garnet crystals. The different colors and lustrous crystal faces give the specimen a varied surface texture. Its visual appeal comes primarily from the combination of numerous small, well-formed andradite crystals.

Andradite – An Iron-Rich Garnet

Andradite belongs to the garnet group and has the chemical formula Ca₃Fe₂(SiO₄)₃. Trivalent iron is an essential component of its crystal structure. Like other garnets, andradite crystallizes in the cubic crystal system.

Typical crystal forms include rhombic dodecahedra and trapezohedra. In addition, andradite occurs in several colors, including green, yellow, brown and reddish-brown. This particular specimen is characterized by its reddish-brown to orange-brown coloration and dense crystal coverage.

Andradite occurs in contact-metamorphic and metasomatically altered rocks, among other environments. Andradite crystals are also known from skarn deposits in the Dalnegorsk district. However, the exact mine of origin of this specimen is unknown.

Condition and Special Features

The reverse of the specimen has been sawn and shows a mostly flat cut surface. This surface is partly covered by yellowish-green rock material. Additional andradite crystals are visible along the edges and in some areas of the reverse. The sawn surface is documented in a separate product photograph.

Measuring 5.9 × 4.5 × 2.4 cm and weighing 107.4 g, the specimen has a convenient size. Its rich coverage of numerous well-formed garnet crystals makes it an interesting collector’s specimen from the well-known Dalnegorsk mineral district.