Ruby Spinel (gem "floater") (ex Rich Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

It has been next to impossible to obtain fine quality Spinel specimens from Burma these days it seems. Matrix specimens of Spinel are uncommon, but to find gem quality crystal crystal GROUPS like this is extremely difficult as well. This piece is a classic Burmese "Ruby Spinel" crystal group with very sharp, defined, lustrous, octahedral faces and a gemmy rich red color. The crystals are complete on all sides, showing virtually no damage, and are nearly water clear in areas. It is not often that one encounters Spinels from Mogok that are not just single crystals. The piece is very showy and aesthetic for the material, and certainly not easily replaced in this market. This piece was mined around 2000, and is one of the finest Spinels from the Rich Kosnar collection. The best of these specimens are simply the finest in the world for what they are. This is an example of a non-pegmatite gem mineral for which many collectors probably do have a good specimen in their collections. Valued at $900-$1000 for the quality, gemminess and multiple crystallization.