1.13 Ct. Andalusite from Madagascar

This specimen from The Natural Gemstone Company is a transparent, oval shape andalusite weighing 1.13 carats, with dimensions of 7.20 by 5.43 by 4.23 millimeters. The stone is fashioned with a mixed brilliant cut that balances facet brilliance and color depth, and it displays a medium intense greenish brown hue. Clarity has been evaluated at eye level as very very slightly included, providing near eye clean appearance that supports strong light return. The polish is excellent, and the stone has not undergone any enhancement. Origin is Madagascar, a source known for well formed andalusite crystals, and the combination of cut, clarity, and polish yields a gem that is ready for mounting in fine jewelry.

Andalusite is noted for its pleochroic character, and this particular greenish brown example shows distinct shifts between olive green, warm brown, and golden tones as it is rotated or viewed under different lighting. The mixed brilliant cut enhances this optical variability by opening the crown to light while retaining depth in the pavilion, so color zones remain lively without looking flat. Because the stone is transparent and very very slightly included, light travels through the gem with minimal obstruction, allowing the interplay of tones to be seen clearly. These attributes make the gem versatile in design, providing a subtle color change that can be emphasized through cut orientation and setting choices.

When set in jewelry, the greenish brown palette complements a broad range of skin tones by either harmonizing with natural undertones or providing tasteful contrast. On fair skin with cool undertones, mounting the stone in a white metal such as platinum or white gold will emphasize the green facets, producing a crisp, elegant effect. On fair skin with warm undertones, yellow gold or rose gold settings will draw out the brown and golden notes, creating a warmer, more cohesive appearance. For medium and olive skin tones, the stone often reads as a natural extension of the skin palette, where the olive and brown interplay creates a harmonious, sophisticated look. For deeper skin tones, the gem can be made to glow by pairing it with yellow gold to accentuate warmth, or it can be set against white metal with bright accent stones to increase contrast and reveal the cooler green flashes. In all cases, the stone benefits from side stones or a halo of small diamonds or warm colored gemstones to lift the perceived brightness without overpowering the central color.

Practical recommendations for mounting this stone reflect its dimensions and optical behavior. The 1.13 carat weight and oval outline suit a solitaire ring, a bezel pendant that protects the girdle, or stud earrings where the mixed brilliant cut will play with light from multiple directions. A low profile prong setting will showcase the color shifts while providing secure exposure to ambient light, and a halo or channel set accents will enhance sparkle and perceived size. Given andalusite hardness in the moderate range, protective settings are advisable for daily wear pieces, and routine cleaning with mild soap and a soft brush will maintain brilliance without risk of alteration, consistent with the no enhancement status of the gem. For consultation about specific mounting options or to see complementary metal and accent combinations, please contact The Natural Gemstone Company for technical details and recommendations tailored to the intended design.