Diamond on matrix (Kay Robertson Coll.)

Item Description

A 5 mm, rounded, colorless diamond octahedron is nicely set in matrix from the famous Mir Pipe. The octo exhibits the extreme adamantine luster that the species is known for. The gray-green kimberlite matrix includes numerous typical phenocrysts of other minerals and rock fragments, INCLUDING red pyrope garnets - a key diamond-bearing kimberlite indicator. The pipe was discovered in 1955, closed in 2011 and was the first and one of the largest diamond pipes of the USSR. Ex Kay Robertson Collection # 8673. Kay is a prominent California collector, who specialized in European classics (see the article in the March-April, 2007 Mineralogical Record). A handwritten note on the back of her label states she bought this piece from Canadian dealer and collector Don Doell at the Tucson Show in 1979. valued $1200-1500