Demantoid Garnet with Calcite on Matrix, 71.55 CT, Afghanistan

A Self Standing Demantoid Garnet With Calcite From Belqeys Mountain

This demantoid garnet crystal weighs 71.55 carats and comes from Belqeys Mountain, known locally as Koh e Belgheys, an Afghan locality recognized for producing richly saturated green demantoid garnet. Measuring 26 x 21 x 20 mm, the crystal is fully terminated and completely free of damage, sitting on a natural calcite matrix that gives the whole specimen a self standing position without needing a separate display base.

Demantoid garnet is known for exceptionally high dispersion, meaning it produces more fire and brightness than most other garnet varieties, and the excellent luster on this crystal shows that quality clearly. The calcite base isn't just supportive, it provides a lighter, contrasting texture against the deep green garnet crystal, giving the piece real visual depth from multiple angles. Self standing specimens like this one carry extra practical value for display purposes, since a piece that holds its own aesthetic position saves you from sourcing or building a separate stand. To see the luster and self standing position in more detail, we'd recommend watching the video of this exact specimen.

Specifications

Gemstone Properties

• Birthstone: Alternative birthstone for January
• Zodiac Sign: Virgo, Libra
• Chakra: Heart Chakra
• Healing Properties: Demantoid garnet is often associated with abundance and heart-centered energy in crystal healing practice, similar to other green stones. Collectors also value it for its rarity and its dispersion, which historically made demantoid a favorite in fine antique jewelry before it became scarce enough to be collected primarily as raw specimens.

Why Buy From Minerals Paradise

We source demantoid garnet and other rare minerals directly from Afghanistan and Pakistan, cutting out the resellers that usually add markup between the mine and your collection. The specimen you receive is the exact piece shown in the photos and video, not a similar one pulled from stock. Every order ships express worldwide, backed by a 30-day return policy. You can view and purchase this specimen directly here.

For more demantoid garnet, browse our dedicated Demantoid Garnet Crystals collection. If you're comparing pieces from the same locality, we also carry a lush green demantoid garnet crystal at 64 grams, a demantoid garnet with calcite at 399 grams, and a larger demantoid garnet with calcite specimen at 3040 grams if you want to compare scale within the same pairing. To understand garnet varieties and where demantoid fits among them, read our garnet color guide.

FAQS

Does this demantoid garnet stand on its own without a stand?

Yes, the crystal's natural position on its calcite matrix gives it a self standing display position without needing a separate stand or mount.

Is this demantoid garnet natural and untreated?

Yes. This specimen from Belqeys Mountain, Afghanistan is completely natural with no treatment or enhancement.

What is the calcite base, and why does it appear with the garnet?

Calcite forms naturally alongside demantoid garnet at this locality, appearing here as the crystal's natural matrix rather than being added separately, and it's what gives the piece its self standing structure.

Is the crystal damaged or does it have any chips?

No, the crystal is fully terminated and completely free of damage.

How does this compare to your other demantoid garnet specimens from the same locality?

This piece is smaller and priced accordingly compared to our larger demantoid garnet specimens with calcite, making it a more accessible entry point into the same locality and mineral pairing.