1.63 Ct. Rhodolite Garnet from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This exceptional pear shaped rhodolite garnet, presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, is an elegant study in color, clarity, and classical form. Weighing 1.63 carats and measuring 9.74 x 6.09 x 3.67 millimeters, this gem sits in a size range that is both wearable and visually striking for a center stone in rings or finely proportioned pendants. The stone has been fashioned with a mixed brilliant cut, which combines a brilliant style crown to maximize scintillation, with carefully proportioned pavilion facets that provide depth and return of light. The polish is excellent, giving the gem crisp facet junctions and a lively surface reflection. The overall visual impression is of a transparent, vividly colored rhodolite that balances fire and brilliance with a pleasing pear silhouette that is versatile for modern and period inspired settings.

Color is the defining characteristic for rhodolite, and this example displays a purplish pink tone with intense color saturation. The hue leans toward the raspberry to rose family, with enough depth to read richly under indoor lighting, yet with lift that prevents the stone from appearing overly dark in daylight. Intense color intensity is one of the primary contributors to value in colored gemstones, and it is especially prized in rhodolite because the color ranges are associated with both aesthetic appeal and rarity within permitted sizes. The lack of enhancement is an important factor for discerning buyers, as it means the color and clarity are wholly natural, unchanged by heat treatment, diffusion, fracture filling, or dyeing. For an educated buyer, the combination of a saturated, evenly distributed purplish pink, coupled with natural origin, increases both desirability and long term collectability.

Clarity for this gem is described as very very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which for practical purposes means the stone appears eye clean to most observers, with only minimal, well healed or localized inclusions that do not distract from the gem’s transparency or brilliance. Such clarity supports strong light return through the mixed brilliant cut, allowing the internal color to glow without significant obstruction. In gemological terms, rhodolite belongs to the pyrope almandine garnet series, with a durable crystalline structure and a Mohs hardness typically around 7 to 7.5, which makes it suitable for everyday jewelry when set and cared for properly. The gem’s refractive properties in the mid 1.70s impart a lively sparkle and distinct internal reflection planes, so the cutting style and facet angles have been optimized to showcase both the vivid color and the stone’s optical character.

The provenance of this rhodolite from Ceylon, Sri Lanka, adds a layer of cultural and historical resonance. Sri Lanka has been a producing region for fine colored stones for many centuries, with an established tradition of lapidary craftsmanship and an historic association of gemstones with protective and auspicious uses. Garnets in general have been employed historically as talismans, signet stones, and symbols of love and vitality across many cultures, including local traditions in South Asia. Rhodolite, with its rose to raspberry tones, has often been favored for jewelry linked to romance and emotional symbolism, and its color makes it a compelling choice for heirloom pieces intended to be worn and treasured. At The Natural Gemstone Company we emphasize ethical sourcing and responsible handling, and we can advise on settings that honor this gem’s heritage, such as warm rose gold for a contemporary romantic look, or a classic yellow gold bezel or halo for a period inspired presentation. For maintenance we recommend routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoidance of prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme heat, and professional inspection of settings. We are available to provide additional high resolution imagery, mounting guidance, and assistance with independent certification if you desire a formal report to accompany this lovely natural rhodolite.