Anthophyllite - Cordierite - Garnet Free Form

Free form in anthophyllite - cordierite  - garnet from madagascar 

Size: 9 x 7 cm

Anthophyllite is a mineral belonging to the amphibole group, which is a group of rock-forming silicate minerals. It is named after its characteristic olive-green color and is primarily composed of magnesium, iron, and aluminum. Anthophyllite is known for its fibrous or asbestiform crystal habit and can occur in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss.

Cordierite, also known as iolite, is a mineral that belongs to the group of silicate minerals called the cyclosilicates. It is commonly found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is known for its distinctive blue to violet-blue color. Cordierite has excellent clarity and can be used as a gemstone, although it is not as well-known or widely used as other gemstones.

Madagascar is known for its diverse mineral resources, and cordierite is indeed found in certain regions of the country. It can occur in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss and schist, as well as in some granites. Cordierite deposits have been reported in several areas of Madagascar, including the Antananarivo Province and the central highlands.

Madagascar is renowned for its rich deposits of red garnets, particularly the variety known as spessartine garnet. Spessartine garnets from Madagascar are highly valued in the gemstone industry for their vibrant red color, excellent clarity, and high brilliance.

The most famous locality for red garnets in Madagascar is the Antsiranana Province in the northern part of the country. Specifically, the region around the town of Ambanja is known for producing high-quality spessartine garnets. These garnets are often found in association with other minerals such as quartz and feldspar in pegmatite veins.

Madagascan red garnets are sought after by gemstone collectors and jewelry designers due to their exceptional color and gemological properties. The gemstones are often cut into faceted gemstones, which display their rich red hues and high brilliance. They are commonly used in various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

It's worth mentioning that Madagascar also has other notable gemstone deposits, including sapphires, rubies, tourmalines, and labradorite, making it a significant source for colored gemstones.