Topazolite (Yellow Andradite Garnets) For Sale

Topazolite is an uncommon yellow variety of andradite garnet. Topazolite is named for its resemblance to the mineral topaz, though this likeness is only visual and the two are chemically unrelated. Topazolite usually forms bright, translucent yellow, brown-yellow, or yellow-green dodecahedral crystals. While crystals are generally small, they are hard enough to cut into faceted gems. Their rarity and attractive, glossy appearance make them very valuable to collectors and are a staple of the gem trade.

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Andradite Garnets

$12 - $225

Where Is Topazolite Found?

Top-shelf topazolite is mined in a few locations around the world. California is responsible for tight aggregates of topazolite that display the entire range of the mineral's colors. Italy produces bright green crystals with yellow tints in select localities. Brown-yellow and sparkly yellow crystals typically form large groupings found in Arizona, Iran, and Madagascar. Lately, olive green and yellow-green dodecahedrons and trapezohedrons are coming out of Mexico. These specimens are attractive and highly collectable.

How Does Topazolite Form?

Topazolite garnets will form in any type of rock. They most commonly occur in skarns developed through contact metamorphosis, or in igneous intrusions like granite pegmatites. These garnets also form in sedimentary placer deposits, as well as serpentines and chlorite schists.

Common Associations

Topazolite often forms associations with massive varieties of garnet as its matrix. When not associated with other garnets, it is associated with calcite, biotite, clinochlore, serpentine, orthoclase, albite, and epidote.

TOPAZOLITE (YELLOW ANDRADITE GARNETS) FOR SALE

Where Is Topazolite Found?

How Does Topazolite Form?

Common Associations