4.14 ct. Japanese Iridescent Garnet
Color: Dark Brown / Iridescence
Clarity: Semi-Translucent
Origin: Kose Mine, Tenkawa, Nara Prefecture, Japan
Cut: Oval - Checkerboard Top
Treatments: None
Measurements: 9.7 x 7.8 mm
These are one of the most distinctive of all Garnets. From a well known (and now completely off-limits) Japanese locality, the iridescence is caused by the twinning of the garnet crystal and is close to the surface only - too deep a polish will remove it entirely. Anything symmetrical from this locale is scarce - these are often left as freeforms to lessen the likelihood of polishing away the iridescence. A beautiful example with a fine degree of color and superior luster; remarkably, there is even some translucency to the garnet's bodycolor. One of the few examples of stones from this find that could easily be incorporated into jewelry. Quite rare now to find these in such sizes.