Demantoid - a precious gem of the ancient Russian nobility

Demantoid is a precious jewelry stone of the garnet group. Many people know garnet as a luxurious dark red stone. But it's not that simple. Demantoid is a green stone. It is a type of the mineral andradite.
Demantoid stone – deposits and properties

The mineral andradite (chemical formula Ca3Fe2[SiO4]3) is not valuable as a jewelry raw material, but some of its varieties, and in particular demantoid, every woman would dream of seeing in her jewelry box.

This stone is also called the Ural emerald. The beautiful stone was first found in 1868 by N. Nordenschild in gold placers near the Nizhne Tagil plant in the Urals. In 1874, workers - father and son Kaluzhny - discovered the Sysertskoye deposit. It was from here that demantoids of exceptional beauty were supplied.

Demantoid – “diamond-like”

. The stone received this name from a comparison with a greenish diamond. “Demant” is translated from Dutch as diamond, and “eidos” is translated from Greek as similar. In it you can see the shimmer of shine and the strong play of multi-colored rays, especially in faceted crystals.

A demantoid can sparkle with all the colors of the rainbow, and in terms of light refraction it surpasses even a diamond, for which Carl Faberge once loved it. Of the many stones, the demantoid, after the diamond, sparkles even in the shadows. By this feature you can determine whether it is really a demantoid.

A beautiful crystal was found in Chukotka and Kamchatka, then it was discovered in Italy, in gold-bearing placers in Sri Lanka, Congo, Zaire, Switzerland, and the USA. But none of the deposits can compare in beauty and size with Russian demantoid deposits. The Ural demantoid is the pride of Russia.

The color of the demantoid is often green with yellowish, pistachio, emerald and brown tints. The color is explained by the inclusion of iron, titanium and chromium ions in the crystals. Finds of demantoid with the “cat's eye” effect are known. Previously, demantoid was distinguished by color into four types. Today they are already talking about eleven. The color of the stone comes in three types: golden, silver and reddish. However, the best color is considered to be deep green with blue.

Hardness – 6.5 – 7.0. There is no cleavage. Density 3.82 – 3.85 g/cm3. Diamond shine. A particularly important feature of demantoids is the presence of inclusions of fibrous actinolite asbestos - bissolite. The fibers are arranged parallel to each other or diverge in bunches, forming the so-called “horse tails” or “sun”. And this feature gives the demantoid great value.

The most prized is the demantoid, in which the rays of the “tail” go symmetrically upward, scattering towards the site of the faceted crystal. It is in such stones that an amazing game takes place. Demantoid is cut with a brilliant cut, which allows you to enhance the play of the stone, sometimes in a stepped way. Stones with defects are processed in the form of cabochons.

Demantoid is most often used for pendants and necklaces, rarely for rings, due to its low hardness.

Demantoid is sold with great success and at higher prices in America, Great Britain, Japan and Hong Kong. Russian fashionistas prefer diamonds. Apparently, the stone remains little known to them.

Demantoid can change color when heated. If the crystal has a ponytail, you can determine whether it was heated or not. Taking a magnifying glass, you should examine the fibers of the “tail”. If these lines are interrupted, it means there was heating. Therefore, the price of such a crystal should be lower.

The largest demantoid was found in the Urals - its weight is 252.5 carats (50.5 grams).

History of the Ural chrysolite

A natural stone, green in color, resembling a diamond in radiance and brilliance, was found in the Middle Urals in 1874. The valuable find became known to the public thanks to the Russian collector A.V. Kalugin and his father. Kalugin, who was an employee of the Mining Institute of Yekaterinburg, therefore determined the value of the mineral found on a tributary of the Poldnevaya River.

Initially, it was assumed that the find was samples of chrysolite. Then it became known that similar crystals were found in Nizhny Tagil. Upon in-depth study, a result was obtained confirming the identity of the gems. Previously, they were classified as olivine rock, but after in-depth analysis it was revealed that the crystals are a subspecies of andradite of the garnet group.

The mineral was called the “diamond-like” demantoid. Although most jewelry makers call the charmingly colored stone chrysolite. At the end of the 19th century, master Kuznetsov was a famous lapidary. He cut the first green garnet given to him by the Kalugins.

The magnificent work of the master showed that the stone is flawless and will serve as an exquisite decoration. Among the upper class in Tsarist Russia, it was fashionable to adorn themselves with jewelry containing the “Ural emerald.”

Historical facts

During its existence, the stone changed its name many times. Among the common names, it was popularly called tausonnite, Russian chrysolite, marvelite or Ural emerald. He received the last option for a reason, since the stone was discovered in 1974 on the Bobrovka River near the village of Poldnevaya.

Place of Birth

After the discovery of the stone in the Urals, deposits were discovered in Chukotka and Kamchatka. Since 1990, demantoid began to be mined in Namibia. The stone was found in Madagascar in 2009. Today, the largest deposits are the USA, Turkey, Congo, Pakistan, Iran, and Sri Lanka.

Place of Birth

Basically, the Ural mines supply the world market with Russian chrysolite. Since the discovery of the deposit near the village of Poldnevoy, several more mines have been opened where demantoid is mined. There are known deposits located in the north, south and east of Africa.

Tanzania, Kenya and Namibia are famous for their deposits of precious stones. Jewelry stone mined on the African continent differs in composition from the Ural gem. Russian pomegranate is superior to African pomegranate in exceptional purity and beauty, which is given by the “pony tail” effect.

Price

Demantoid stone is considered precious.

You can buy it at this price:

  • demantoid, crystals on rock (6 x 3.7 x 3.2 cm) - RUB 16,500. ;
  • brooch (gold 585) — RUB 17,952. ;
  • pendant (gold 585) — RUB 42,315. ;
  • earrings (gold 585) — RUB 49,820. ;
  • ring (gold 585) — RUB 92,255. ;
  • bracelet (gold 585) — RUB 103,443. ;
  • necklace (gold 585) — RUB 265,375.

Physical properties

The use of the gem is possible for the manufacture of various jewelry, since due to its high density and hardness it can be processed, resulting in clear and shining edges, like a diamond. First-class jewelry is obtained with a mineral containing bisolite inclusions, the so-called “horsetail”. The strong light refraction, sparkle, brilliance and tints characteristic of demantoid make it into the category of expensive stones.

PropertiesDescription
FormulaCa3Fe2(SiO4)3
Hardness6,5-7
ImpurityChromium.
Density3.84 g/cm³
TransparencyTransparent.
ShineGlass, diamond.
ColorGreen is sometimes yellow.

Variety

As a variety of green garnet, demantoid is characterized by all shades of this color. Bissolite inclusions create a ponytail appearance with a bright yellowish-green hue.

There are stones with a “cat’s eye” effect; such specimens are very expensive and are very popular among collectors. A “diamond-like” mineral is transparent, the color depends on the admixture of elements. The color is mainly influenced by the chromium, iron, and titanium it contains, which gives a yellowish tint.

Trace of the oligarch

Gran LLC was established in Verkhny Ufaley in 2001. The main activity of the company is the extraction of precious and semi-precious stones. Its only founder was the Ural Mining Company, the origins of which, according to the Kartoteka.ru service, were famous South Ural businessmen Mark Leyvikov and his business partner Evgeniy Vainshtein.


It was the former Minister of Industry Viktor Khristenko who “promoted” Mark Leyvikov. Photo: Stanislav Krasilnikov/TASS

At that time, Mark Leyvikov was called a local oligarch and a creature of the former Minister of Industry of the Russian Federation Viktor Khristenko

. Messrs. Leyvikov and Weinstein were considered the main beneficiaries of the largest energy sector in the Chelyabinsk region, which controlled almost the entire market of the region. In addition to energy assets, such enterprises as Ufaleynickel, Zlatoust Metallurgical Plant, and ChTPZ were associated with businessmen. And Evgeny Weinstein is known as an honored boxing coach and the head of the Urals Boxing Federation.

Healing properties

“It is useful to observe stones, you can reflect on them, but more valuable than anything else is the desire to understand the laws of life” [V. Sletov]. The healing power of stones to this day causes a lot of controversy, guesses and assumptions. It is known that the healing stone emits vibrations that definitely affect the physical and mental state of a person.

Also read: Taaffeite - a stone of youth and longevity

Litho therapists, who practice using the healing properties of stones, study in detail the healing properties of minerals. The purpose of the study is to know who vibrations may be suitable for a certain disease, and who will benefit from a general strengthening effect when using a crystal.

In mineral treatment, color is of no small importance. In chromotherapy there is a definition for the color green, as if it has a double meaning, since it combines blue and yellow. If the stone looks green, therefore, the healing effect will spread in several directions at once.

For example, the vibrations of a gem cause an energy surge, awakening enthusiasm and a positive attitude towards the implementation of plans. Also, the influence of the stone can provoke the effect of a sedative, balance emotions and relieve nervous tension.

The main healing property of demantoid is that it has a beneficial effect on the human psyche, encouraging him to personal growth, development, harmony with nature and the people around him.

The gem has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, has a tonic effect on the body, increases its resistance, and helps fight colds. Visualization of the stone has a healing effect on the human body and helps to function:

  • nervous system;
  • visual apparatus;
  • respiratory system;
  • musculoskeletal system;
  • endocrine system;
  • normalizes heart function;
  • improves the condition of the skin;
  • relieves infertility;
  • helps restore male strength
  • The power of the stone promotes the growth and development of muscle mass.

The compatibility of the mineral with the metal in healing activities gives a positive result. For example, the effect of silver favors the cleansing of energy and the body, but gold has magical properties. The use of jewelry with one or another setting in treatment is favorable if it corresponds to its intended purpose.

The amazing properties of the stone make the body invigorate, receiving a dose of life-giving energy, but on the other hand, the opposite effect is possible, giving an all-consuming peace. When choosing jewelry that will not only decorate, but also have an impact on a person, it is better to listen to your own feelings and state of health.

Therapeutic effect

The healing properties of demantoid extend to the emotional and physical state of the owner:

  • Green color is beneficial for vision in case of farsightedness and myopia: it is enough to contemplate the pebble for a few minutes a day.
  • The mineral normalizes the nervous system: neutralizes depression, increases stress resistance and quality of sleep.
  • Heals, cleanses blood vessels, normalizes blood pressure. Beads, pendant or brooch help the heart work better.
  • A pendant with demantoid will solve respiratory problems: bronchitis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis.
  • A stone in contact with the skin cleanses and heals it.

Demantoid helps solve intimate problems:

  • A silver bracelet is needed for ladies trying to overcome infertility.
  • A gold ring on the right middle finger will help with impotence or protect men from the risk of its occurrence.
  • If marital passion has cooled down, a mineral in identical jewelry will rekindle it.


Earrings with demantoid
In all cases, a raw crystal is also suitable.

Magic properties

The power of stones is related to mysticism, since it is impossible to describe in full what can be accomplished with its help. The demantoid magic stone is considered one of the most mysterious artifacts. Rarity is one of the reasons why this treasure is not found very often in everyday life. Due to the high cost of the gem, not many practicing magicians manage to experience the power of vibrations of the Ural emerald.

This mineral, as a magnificent discovery, gives people strength and power over base feelings, so it is not used for various black rituals. To obtain the desired effect, the magic of the crystal is directed towards creation, gaining inspiration or inner harmony, everything that changes life for the better.

If we assume that a person strives to achieve achievements in his professional activities, build a successful career and improve the material side of life, then he will need a demantoid, as it will eliminate the harmful influences that lead astray from the true path. But if you choose a gem of a darker shade, then you should expect stability and uniformity in business.

The impact of the stone will be aimed at the personal qualities of the owner. Accuracy, punctuality, discipline, and organization can be developed with the help of a magical amulet. All attention will be focused on what is important; instead of saving money, a person will begin to thriftfully use the most expensive resource - time.

Decoration made from demantoid not only ennobles the image of the owner of the jewelry, but also affects thought processes, increasing intellectual abilities and strengthening memory. The magic of the gem helps to control emotions and keep oneself on top, even in the most heated arguments. The crystal also has a magical effect on those who surround the owner of the talisman, forcing themselves to behave respectfully, demonstrating respect.

Demantoid protects against making rash decisions and deception on the part of partners. The vibrations of the stone cleanse and strengthen the energy, preventing the influence of dark forces from affecting the biofield. A person who has received a positive charge from a crystal is able to implement any project.

Also read: Ametrine - a Bolivian miracle

The power of green garnet extends to both business and personal life. The search for a worthy life partner can be simplified by wearing jewelry with demantoid. The stone receives a mental, verbal signal, as well as a spiritual call for help. The magical mineral is also able to preserve crumbling relationships, strengthen family ties, and remove obstacles that prevent the implementation of family plans.

With the help of a talisman you can get an answer to any question in life. To do this, it is enough to immerse yourself in a meditative state and at the same time have a product with demantoid with you. It is imperative to hold the question in your thoughts, and inside maintain the desire to receive an answer. Soon the solution to the problem will come by itself.

Laziness and irresponsibility are the invisible worst enemies of humanity; an amulet with a similar crystal will help to cope with such vices. It will also contribute to the awakening of hidden abilities, the manifestation and development of talent.

Jewelry with mineral

The crystal can be combined with any precious metal, but products with yellow gold are, of course, more beautiful. Jewelry with demantoid will not leave anyone indifferent. Ladies and gentlemen, dressed in luxurious outfits, can flaunt such jewelry at social events, at evenings where noble society gathers.

It is known that the price of a faceted crystal is considerable, but to buy a product the cost increases significantly. In order to evaluate what is desirable and possible, a list of prices for some products is offered.

  • a gold necklace with demantoid and diamonds, length 42.5, costs $28,000;
  • gold earrings with large and small crystals, weighing 6.7, cost $1,500;
  • men's gold ring made of gold with a 0.12 carat gem costs $405;
  • an exquisite gold and demantoid engagement ring weighing just over 8 grams costs $870.

Jewelry delights, such as a demantoid necklace or bracelet, emphasize status, wealth, and belonging to the elite. And if this is of great importance to a person, of course, the decoration will demonstrate this.

Price

According to the jewelry classification, demantoid is considered a semi-precious stone, so the price of jewelry is relatively affordable (RUB):

  • earrings (925° silver, 2 stones – 0.56 carats) – 3,600;
  • cut, round (4.5x4.5 mm; 0.35 carats) – 2,160;
  • untreated agglomerate (14x12x10 mm) – 500;
  • demantoid on quartz (90x72x37 mm) – 9,600.


Demantoid 0.81 carats
A set of three faceted round stones with a total weight of 8 carats with dimensions 8x5x5 mm is offered to buy on the Internet for almost 250,000 rubles.

How to distinguish a fake?

It happens that it is not always possible to enlist the support of an experienced expert when choosing a piece of jewelry. To independently distinguish the original from a fake, you should examine the stone in good lighting. Even artificial light will make the stone sparkle and shimmer with all its facets.

Armed with a magnifying glass, one examines the Ural ponytail garnet, which indicates the originality of the stone. If a piece of jewelry has a “cat’s eye” effect, then it is original. Large stones are probably fake, since a demantoid larger than 1 cm simply does not exist in nature.

Also read: Dolomite - a natural unusual stone

Buying jewelry with a green garnet is an investment of a large sum of money, so it is best to purchase it from trusted persons, with the provision of certificates and execution of the relevant papers.

The partnership was given business

At the same time, Maxim Demidov initiated a criminal case against Oleg Kudelkin for fraud (Article 159 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation). According to investigators, the entrepreneur misled the jeweler about the value of the demantoid mining company. In fact, it cost 3.1 million rubles and not 147 million rubles. As a result, at the beginning of 2022, the case went to the Oktyabrsky District Court of Yekaterinburg, which completely acquitted Oleg Kudelkin in October.

The court took into account the fact that before the initiation of the criminal case, protracted arbitration proceedings were conducted between the partners, and the investigation was never able to provide evidence that the jeweler was deliberately deceived.

Allegedly, he himself took the initiative to purchase a share in Grani. In addition, it was found that a significant portion of the money was spent on the company's operations.

However, this decision was challenged by both representatives of the state prosecution and Maxim Demidov’s lawyers. However, already at the beginning of 2022, the Sverdlovsk Regional Court fully confirmed the findings of the lower court and ruled that the dispute was of a civil nature.

Caring for stone products

Natural stones require careful treatment and proper care.

  • Cleaning is carried out in a delicate way, without using aggressive chemicals. It is cleaned from contamination using a soap solution and running water. Dry naturally, without heating, but with a soft cloth.
  • Such jewelry is stored in a separate case, lined with velvet fabric inside.

You get real pleasure admiring the sparkle of the stone when it shimmers in the sun. However, sunlight destroys the structure of the crystal; it is advisable to protect the jewelry from direct rays.

Compatibility with names and zodiac signs

The astrological properties of the gem suggest who should use it as a battery charged with vital energy, and who should find a more suitable talisman.

(“++” – the stone fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated):

Zodiac signsCompatibility
Aries
Taurus+
Twins++
Cancer+
a lion++
Virgo+
Scales++
Scorpion+
Sagittarius++
Capricorn+
Aquarius++
Fish+

  • Children of the Air element are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. Nature has given the demantoid an important mission: to protect from adversity and help everyone develop as a professional and as a person.
  • Leos and Sagittarius are no less fortunate, since the stone is also favorable to them and protects them in the professional field.
  • As for Pisces, demantoid does not assist them, so you should not rely on its strength; it is better to look for a more suitable mineral.

The compatibility of an amazing stone with your own name will help significantly increase the power of its impact.

  • Svetlana, wearing jewelry with demantoid, can count on help and support from men; she will boldly cope with any tasks assigned.
  • Olga, showing her business qualities, forgets about her creative abilities; the influence of the gem will not allow her talent to fade away.
  • Julia shows ability in the household, surrounding her family with boundless care, the amulet will remind her that she needs to pay maximum attention to herself.
  • Angela does not believe in herself, she lacks confidence in her creative potential, the talisman will reveal inexhaustible possibilities where she realizes herself as a creative person.
  • Sergey, with the help of the stone, will tame jealousy, thereby maintaining a wonderful relationship with his soul mate for life.

Demantoid is a noble stone, it has a gentle effect, but the vibrations force something to change in a person’s consciousness, thus changing his life.

Note

Green pomegranate is delightful in appearance, serves as decoration and helps protect against negativity. Properties have a wide range. By the influence of the energy with which the stone is charged, ailments and disorders are treated. Useful for those who are unsure of their abilities or are at a loss.

And a creative person, looking at the “Ural emerald,” will gain inspiration. When using it as decoration or as a healing tool, it is important to remember that first of all the stone helps kind and sympathetic people.

5/5 — (1 vote)

The security forces were in action

After the introduction of bankruptcy proceedings in, which became 100 percent owned by Oleg Kudelkin, there was a change in management. True, not at the will of the businessman. Stanislav Busylko in 2022

(this is his first participation in private business, according to the Kartoteka.ru service).

According to Octagon, Stanislav Busylko is the brother of the former first deputy head of the investigative department of the Investigative Committee for the Sverdlovsk Region, Mikhail Busylko. Since November 2022, Mikhail Busylko has been under investigation for accepting a bribe of 18 million rubles. He received money to help businessman Vitaly Trukhin

, who was a victim in the case of theft of assets of JSC Metallurgical Plant named after I.P. Bardin, but the case was not investigated.

It is interesting that lawyer Vladislav Vostretsov

. It turned out that at the same time he represented the interests of Maxim Demidov in a criminal case against Oleg Kudelkin.

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