Smithsonite (incredible color)

Item Description

The famous quote from John Sinkankas was "gems are minerals after all". In our continued efforts to promote the importance of gemstones for ALL collectors, we want to give mineral collectors a chance at a rare cut stone that complements a choice mineral specimen from a classic locality. Some of the finest mineral collections in the world are accompanied by gemstones that either complete a "rough and cut" set for certain specimens, or simply show the beauty of particular species when they are faceted. We are offering this stone as an opportunity for collectors to expand their horizons and purchase gemstones that would supplement crystallized specimens in their collections. I think it is important for collectors to know that faceted stones can expand one's interests in minerals and can add a certain reverence to the hobby of collecting minerals. The Masua mine in Sardinia, Italy has produced some of the most impressive and eye-catching yellow Smithsonite from any locality. This material is most likely either Cuprian and or Cadmian Smithsonite, but there's no denying the beauty and sheer impact of the electric yellow color of the material! This stone is a wonderful, bright lemon yellow color stone with an "Emerald" cut. The gem itself is translucent, but I have never seen completely transparent stones from this locailty. As a matter of fact, I have only seen a handful of these gems in my life, and yellow stones are certainly hard to come by, especially anything that comes close to the intensity of this stone. The gem looks good in the photos, but even better in person. A wonderful opportunity for a collector to snag this attractive and rarely seen gem for a low $100 reserve starting bid. The stone came to me with a retail price of $150 per carat. Enjoy!