This relatively new deposit of Demantoid garnets were found in a mangrove swamp, on the northwest coast of Madagascar. As is typical in Madagascar, when a few gem pebbles are found, a massive "rush," happens. In this case miners must dig holes 6 - 30 feet deep, but only at low tide. According to my friend who traveled to the site, the best colors were found early on in the strike. As the deposit has played out and gotten deeper, the colors have shifted to a more brownish shade of green. This piece shows great color, and wonderful transparency. The two crystals are large for this location, each is roughly 1 cm long, and quite bright. Some of these pieces have a color variance between daylight and fluorescent lighting, however this one is consistent and of great quality. My friend paid over $100 US for it in the bush, in Madagascar. For the miner it was equal to several months wages (for a regular job). It weighs 9.73 carats/ 1.95 grams.

Garnet var. Demantoid