The Magnificent Raspberry Rhodolite Garnet Gemstone

The Stunning Raspberry Rhodolite Garnet

The raspberry rhodolite garnet is a rare and beautiful gemstone variety found exclusively in North Carolina. Known for its vivid raspberry red color and brilliance, this gem has quite a fascinating history and an alluring lore surrounding its discovery and naming.

The Origins of Raspberry Rhodolite

The first rhodolite garnets were discovered in the late 19th century in the Cowee Valley mining district near Franklin, North Carolina. These gems displayed a distinctive raspberry red hue, unlike traditional violet red rhodolites found elsewhere. The word "rhodolite" comes from the Greek "rhodon" meaning rose. This was in reference to the rose pink color of most rhodolites. However the garnets found in North Carolina were such a rich and vibrant raspberry tone that they were set apart as a special variety.

Rhodolites are a mixture of pyrope and almandine garnet, displaying shades of purplish-red to rose red. The high chromium content in the rhodolites from North Carolina is what gives them their unique raspberry color. These dazzling gems were appropriately named "raspberry rhodolite" to distinguish them from other rhodolites. Though similar gems have since been found in India and other regions, the original raspberry rhodolite remains virtually exclusive to North Carolina.

The Allure of Raspberry Rhodolite Color

What makes raspberry rhodolite so prized is its spellbinding color. The rich reddish-purple hue contains subtle hints of pink, vividly resembling the color of raspberries. Well-cut stones possess incredible brilliance and fire. The refractive quality of these rare garnets allows them to sparkle intensely. When turned in the light, flashes of crimson, violet and fuchsia radiate from the stone's core.

Rhodolites typically fall between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them durable gems suitable for jewelry. Their high refractive index (1.746-1.760) gives them exceptional fire. These optical qualities allow jewelry set with raspberry rhodolites to really come alive. The interplay of light and color is mesmerizing.

Jewelry Applications for Raspberry Rhodolite

Raspberry rhodolites make distinctive gemstones, perfect for one-of-a-kind jewelry designs. They are frequently cut into round brilliant, oval, cushion, trillion and pear shapes to maximize fire and sparkle. Trillion and pear cuts elegantly display the gem's vibrant hue. Antique style cuts like rose cuts and Old European cuts bring out rhodolite's rich color and subtle flashes of pink.

The brilliant raspberry tones make rhodolite ideal for both feminine and masculine jewelry. These gems complement many metals like yellow gold, rose gold, sterling silver and platinum. For women, rhodolites are ideal in ring settings, especially for engagement rings or right hand cocktail rings. The stones lend themselves to floral inspired designs, with beautiful vine, leaf or botanical motifs. For men, rhodolites make one-of-a-kind statement pieces in cufflinks, rings or money clips.

Small raspberry rhodolites can be used as accent stones or in cluster settings to add pops of color to jewelry. They also make unique beads for necklaces and bracelets. Larger rhodolite center stones can be the star in eye-catching earrings, pendants and rings.

The Allure of Raspberry Rhodolite

Part of rhodolite's allure lies in its rich history and North Carolina origins. As the very first rhodolites ever discovered, the raspberry variety holds special significance. Their unmatched color and rarity adds to their preciousness. finding fine quality raspberry rhodolite can be challenging today. Jewelry set with these gems has become highly coveted.

The brilliant color also makes raspberry rhodolite feel more vibrant and vivid than other red gemstones. They radiate warmth and passion. While rubies display a similar red tone, most rhodolites contain fewer imperfections and inclusions. Their eye-clean clarity allows light to pass through and reflect unimpeded for maximum sparkle.

For many, the raspberry rhodolite evokes the lush summer berry harvests in North Carolina fields. Their juicy hue beautifully captures the essence of ripened raspberries glistening in the sun. It's a happy, playful and intoxicating color that feels distinctly joyful.

Raspberry Rhodolite Grading

Like all garnets, rhodolites are graded based on their color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Stones should display a rich, saturated raspberry tone without brownish or purplish secondary hues. They should be eye-clean or very slightly included, with few visible imperfections under 10x magnification.

Well-cut rhodolites exhibit excellent brilliance and fire, with proper proportions to maximize light return through the crown and faceting. Carat weight increases rarity and value for larger clean stones over one carat. Like all colored stones, rhodolites display the most vibrant color in smaller sizes under one carat. Larger gems tend to take on deeper hues and lose some vibrancy.

Identifying Raspberry Rhodolite Garnets

Distinguishing raspberry rhodolites from other rhodolites takes a trained eye. Here are some tips for identifying raspberry rhodolite garnets:

• Color: Display a rich, saturated raspberry-red color without brown or purple secondary hues
• Clarity: Eye-clean to slightly included
• Cut quality: Excellent symmetry, polish and precisely aligned facets
• Carat: Typically under 1 carat for most vibrant color
• Source: Mined originally in the Cowee Valley region of North Carolina

Performing a refractometer test can confirm rhodolite identification. This measures the gemstone's specific gravity and refractive index. Rhodolites exhibit a refractive index of 1.746-1.760 on the refractometer.

Sourcing Genuine Raspberry Rhodolite Gems

Reputable gem dealers are the best source for obtaining untreated, natural rhodolites. Ideally, stones should come with laboratory certification from GIA, AGS or other respected lab. The gem's source, treatment, measurements and identification details should be clearly stated. For raspberry rhodolites, "origin North Carolina" should be indicated.

Local jewelers in Franklin, North Carolina near the original rhodolite mines sometimes carry genuine stones. High-end jewelers and vintage dealers may also offer estate pieces with original raspberry rhodolites. Though supplies are limited, new finds do occasionally occur in North Carolina as mines are actively worked.

It's advisable to avoid discount sites, auctions or private sellers when buying rhodolites. Many synthetic and lab created garnets are passed off as natural by disreputable sellers. These stones lack the refined color, brilliance and value of real raspberry rhodolites.

Are Raspberry Rhodolites a Good Investment?

For collectors and gem enthusiasts, raspberry rhodolite can be an excellent investment. As the very first rhodolites discovered, and one of the only sources in the world, this rare garnet has historic significance. Its mesmerizing color and scarcity also increase its preciousness. Well-cut natural stones are difficult to source today.

Over the past decade, prices for natural unenhanced rhodolites have steadily risen as demand increases. Particularly large, fine gems (over 5 carats) can fetch premium prices up to several thousand dollars per carat. While still lower than fine ruby, the price gap has narrowed given rhodolite's rarity.

Jewelry set with rhodolites is also rising in popularity for engagement rings and fashion pieces. As a unique alternative to more common red gems, they provide an unmatched colorful pop. The special allure of the raspberry rhodolite variety further enhances its collectability and heirloom appeal.

The Alluring Raspberry Rhodolite Garnet

With its one-of-a-kind color and rich history, raspberry rhodolite is truly a legend among garnets. First discovered in North Carolina over a century ago, this distinctive gemstone has captured the fascination of collectors with its vivid raspberry-red tones. Today it remains one of the most sought-after variety of rhodolites. From antique jewelry to contemporary designs, the stunning raspberry rhodolite garnet shines as a testament to nature's diverse beauty.

FAQs

Where are raspberry rhodolites found?

The first raspberry rhodolites were discovered in the late 1800s in the Cowee Valley mining district near Franklin, North Carolina. This remains the only source of true raspberry rhodolite garnet.

What makes raspberry rhodolites so rare?

The rich raspberry-red color of these rhodolites is extremely rare, caused by their high chromium content. This color is virtually exclusive to gems found in North Carolina.

How should raspberry rhodolites be cut?

These garnets are typically cut into round, oval, cushion, trillion or pear shapes to maximize their fire and brilliance. Well-cut stones exhibit excellent light return.

What's the best way to buy raspberry rhodolites?

Reputable gem dealers that provide lab certification are the best source for untreated, natural stones. Local jewelers in Franklin, NC may also have access to genuine raspberry rhodolites.

Are raspberry rhodolites a good investment?

Yes, these rare North Carolina rhodolites are an excellent investment. As supplies diminish, values for natural untreated gems continue to rise over time.