Gemstones
Malaia Allure
Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

When a strange, orangy-pinkish-reddish garnet was discovered in the mid-1960s, in the Umba Valley of Tanzania, locals and experienced gemologists didn’t know what to make of it.  The odd stone was often tossed in with parcels  of sought-after rhodolite garnets, where buyers promptly rejected it, calling it by the local Swahili word, “malaia” – meaning “out of the family” or “outcast.”  Today, however, the outcast shines in gemological circles, and its unique qualities are the very reason for its special allure.

On a trip to Tanzania in May 2012, geologist / gemologist Cynthia Renee discovered this rare specimen of the exotic stone. Despite its already fine cut, she commissioned an award-winning gem cutter to bring out more of the stone’s extraordinary hues. It isn’t easy being malaia, but it is rewarding.

Extra-fine Malaia Garnet: 19.74 carats, 13.9×13.4×11.4 mm.
Extra-fine Malaia Garnet: 19.74 carats, 13.9×13.4×11.4 mm. 
Please contact us for pricing information.

See Cynthia Renée's custom jewelry design portfolio here.

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