Rare Rough
This parcel of rough garnets from Chavia, Kenya, exhibits a distinct color shift—an optical phenomenon where the gem changes color depending on the type of light. Under daylight or fluorescent light, these garnets appear a golden champagne to light cinnamon tone. Under incandescent or warm LED lighting, they shift to deeper orangey-pink to reddish tones, as shown in the side-by-side comparison.
The color shift in garnet is due to the complex interplay of trace elements such as iron, manganese, and chromium within the crystal structure. This optical effect is unrelated to pleochroism (seen in tanzanite or iolite) and is instead a result of how the gemstone absorbs and reflects different wavelengths of light. While color change garnets are well-known from Tanzania and Madagascar, material from Chavia is less common.
This parcel includes natural, unheated garnet rough suitable for faceting, collecting, or study
124 pieces / 30+ grams / 150+ carats / Mixed clarity
Estimate: $235 - $250
