5.22ct Ceylon Rhodolite Garnet - Oval
5.22ct Ceylon Rhodolite Garnet - Oval
Product Details
| Gem Type | Natural Garnet (Rhodolite) |
| Carat Weight | 5.22 ct |
| Dimensions | 11.72 x 8.70 x 6.55 mm |
| Shape/Cut | Oval Brilliant/Step Cut |
| Colour | Purplish Pink |
| Origin | Ceylon (Sri Lanka) |
| Certification | Lanka Gem Lab (LGL) |
This 5.22ct natural rhodolite garnet displays a captivating purplish-pink hue, a colour that sits between raspberry and violet, placing it in the most desirable range for collector-grade rhodolite. The oval brilliant/step cut produces excellent light return across the stone's generous 11.72 x 8.70 mm face, creating a lively interplay of brilliance and depth.
At over 5 carats with this level of colour saturation and transparency, this rhodolite stands well above typical commercial-grade material. The purplish-pink tone is distinctly different from the warmer reds of pyrope garnet, giving rhodolite its own identity as one of the most elegant members of the garnet family.
Origin & Certification
This rhodolite garnet originates from Ceylon (Sri Lanka), where unique geological conditions produce garnets with exceptional colour clarity and saturation. Sri Lanka's gem-bearing gravels have yielded fine rhodolite specimens for centuries, though the island is more widely known for its sapphires.
The Lanka Gem Lab (LGL) has certified this stone, confirming its natural garnet species, purplish-pink colour grade, and Sri Lankan origin. LGL is based in Colombo and is one of Sri Lanka's premier gemological laboratories, specialising in the certification of stones from local mining sources.
Why This Rhodolite
Rhodolite garnet in the purplish-pink colour range is increasingly sought after by collectors and designers as an alternative to pink sapphire. While a 5ct unheated pink sapphire of comparable colour would command tens of thousands of dollars, this rhodolite delivers a similar visual impression at a fraction of the cost. Making it an intelligent choice for buyers who value colour over name recognition.
At $2,200 AUD, this stone occupies the collector-grade segment of the rhodolite market. The combination of size (5.22ct), colour quality (purplish-pink with strong saturation), and independent certification from LGL positions it well above entry-level rhodolite while remaining accessible compared to equivalent sapphires.
The oval cut is the most versatile shape for rhodolite at this size. It suits solitaire rings, pendants, and earring designs equally well. The 11.72 x 8.70 mm dimensions provide significant finger coverage for a ring setting, comparable to a much heavier stone in other gem species.
Related:
What makes this rhodolite purplish-pink rather than red?
Rhodolite garnet colour depends on the ratio of pyrope to almandine in the crystal structure, plus trace elements like manganese and iron. Higher pyrope content and specific manganese concentrations shift the colour from red toward purplish-pink and raspberry tones. This stone's purplish-pink hue indicates a particularly fine balance of these elements.
How does rhodolite compare to pink sapphire?
Rhodolite garnet and pink sapphire share overlapping colour ranges, but rhodolite typically costs significantly less per carat. A 5ct pink sapphire of comparable colour could cost $10,000-$50,000+ depending on treatment status. Rhodolite rates 7-7.5 on Mohs hardness (vs sapphire's 9), so it is slightly less durable but still suitable for ring wear with reasonable care.
Can this stone be set in an engagement ring?
Yes. While not as hard as sapphire, rhodolite garnet at 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale is durable enough for engagement ring wear. A protective bezel or halo setting is recommended for daily wear. The 11.72 x 8.70 mm oval dimensions make a striking centre stone that will draw admiration.
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