1.28 Ct. Andalusite from Madagascar

This specimen from The Natural Gemstone Company is a transparent, one point two eight carat andalusite presented in an elongated emerald cut, with precise dimensions of seven point six nine millimeters by four point nine five millimeters by four point zero four millimeters. The cutter has preserved the natural bi color character typical of high quality Madagascar material, yielding a medium intense color intensity that reads as green through the broad table, and as warm brown to amber along the crown and shoulders. Clarity is graded as slightly included at eye level, with internal features that are visible only under deliberate observation and that do not obscure the stone s transparency. No enhancement has been applied, confirming that the color and clarity are entirely natural, and the gem displays an excellent polish with crisp facet junctions and mirror like facet planes.

The faceting is a classic emerald cut with broad step facets on both crown and pavilion, producing long, clean lines and a large open table that emphasizes both the internal character and the directional color. The length to width ratio of approximately one point five five preserves an elegant, elongated profile, while the pavilion depth of four point zero four millimeters gives a depth that is approximately sixty four percent of the average of the length and the width, a proportion that balances face up spread against optical performance. Because the cut is step oriented, light returns are channeled into broad flashes rather than scintillating brilliants, a behavior that enhances the perception of size and clarity, and that suits settings which favor a strong, architectural presence.

Optically, andalusite is distinguished by pronounced pleochroism, and this piece demonstrates that effect with clarity, literally and figuratively. The stone shows distinct color separation when rotated, with a green axis visible through the table and a brown to warm orange axis presented on the crown facets, producing the bi color appearance recorded in our evaluation. The medium intense saturation is evenly distributed enough to allow the step facets to reveal the internal color zoning without dark windows, and the slightly included clarity allows light to traverse the body of the gem while imparting subtle internal texture that is visible at certain angles. These inclusions, observed primarily in the pavilion planes, do not reach the surface in a way that compromises structural integrity, and they act to emphasize the gem s natural origin rather than detract from its visual performance.

From a design perspective this one point two eight carat emerald cut andalusite is an ideal candidate for a statement center stone, because the combination of transparent body, large table, and elongated proportions maximizes perceived size relative to carat weight. The excellent polish and sharp step facets will read well in a simple, restrained setting that allows the bi color pleochroism to shift with movement, for example a four or six prong setting that secures the corners while exposing the crown, or a low profile bezel that protects the girdle while maintaining face up spread. For clients seeking daily wear, a protective design attention around the corners will preserve the stone s crisp faceting, and the material s durability is suitable for regular use with sensible mounting choices. As with all gems from The Natural Gemstone Company, this andalusite is offered with full disclosure of origin and treatment history, in this case natural Madagascar origin and no enhancement, making it an excellent choice for connoisseurs who prioritize natural character, technical precision, and a visually commanding presence.