Demantoid Garnet
Buyer’s Guide

Colour

Colour is the most critical factor. The most prized demantoids display:

• Bright, vivid green
• Even colour saturation throughout the stone
• Minimal yellow or brown undertones
• Strong light dispersion (“fire”)

Pale or dull stones lack the intensity and brilliance characteristic of premium demantoids. The finest stones exhibit a vibrant, emerald-like green with remarkable sparkle.

Clarity

High-quality demantoid garnets are typically eye-clean, though natural inclusions can occur. A key feature is the “horsetail” inclusion in Russian stones, which does not reduce value but can confirm origin.

Other clarity considerations include:

• Minimal visible inclusions affecting transparency
• No cracks or fractures reaching the surface
• Balanced brilliance and fire

Cut

Cut is essential for maximising brilliance and fire. Important considerations include:

• Precision and symmetry of facets
• Proper depth to enhance light return
• Smooth polish across all surfaces

The round brilliant cut is popular for demantoids, though cushion and oval shapes are also common to maximise fire and colour.

Carat Weight

Demantoid garnets are rare in larger sizes. As size increases, so does value, particularly for stones with vivid colour and good clarity.

Key points:

• Small stones with exceptional colour may surpass larger, lower-quality stones in value
• Medium-to-large stones (above 1–2 carats) are particularly prized
• Consistent colour and brilliance are critical in determining price