Tourmaline

Afghanistan
Gems, 3.13 ct, 9.2 mm x 7.5 mm
Start Time: 02/25/2010 6:45:00 pm (CST)
End Time: 03/04/2010 6:45:00 pm (CST)
Auction Closed

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. Tourmalines are some of the most diverse and popular gems out there. This particular gem was cut from a piece of rough found a few years ago in Afghanisan The stone shows a light greenish-yellow color when looking through the table. One of the most impressive aspects of this gem is the fact that it is only very very slightly included which is remarkable for Tourmaline. The stone has an "Emerald" cut. Tourmaline is classified as a "Type 3" gemstone, as inclusions are almost always present, and accepted by dealers and collectors, so when you find a nearly clean stone like this, it's a real treat. I have to say that these stones are becoming harder and harder to find these days with so much gem Tourmalines coming out of Brazil and Africa lately.

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