Ruby Spinel on Calcite

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 crystals on matrix is extremely difficult. This piece hosts a classic Burmese "Ruby Spinel" crystal with sharp, defined, lustrous, octahedral faces and a gemmy rich purplish-pink color. The crystal sits atop a matrix of massive white Calcite as is typical for this locality. The piece is very showy and aesthetic for the material, and certainly not easily replaced in this market. 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. From an old East Coast collection, with a label from recently deceased dealer, Larry Conklin of New York City. Originally valued at $550.