Sapphire (unique large skeletal crystal) (ex Bill Larson Collection)

Item Description

I've seen a lot of Sapphires from Myanmar over the years, but this one is certainly among the most unique. The bizarre form, is certainly uncharacteristic for Sapphire from any locality. Every side features beautiful deep skeletal / hollow formations that appear as if they were almost formed by a small creature, like worm lines in wood. Upon close inspection you can see that the crystal is actually complete and fully-crystallized all around, save the base where it appears it might have been attached to host rock at one point. The crystal faces on all sides of the piece are actually rather well-formed with a beautiful luster and the color ranges from a medium blue with hints of green and gray here and there. There is some iron oxide included in areas, which actually gives the piece character and enhances the three-dimensional appearance overall. You may never see another Sapphire crystal like this again, especially one this size as it's over 6 cm (2.5 inches!) across. The only reason a crystal like this survived is because it's not gem quality, as nearly everything found in Myanmar with any gem value is immediately faceted. For the size, quality and uniqueness, I would put this one in the $3,000-$4,000 range retail. From the collection of Bill ("Burma Bill") Larson of Fallbrook, California. Bill is a well-known gem and mineral dealer as well as a miner and collector. Bill traveled the world for decades in search of fine gems and minerals, and was directly involved in the in-person acquisition and importation of superb specimens and stones from Myanmar (Burma). You can read his biography at https://mineralogicalrecord.com/biographies_labels/larsonwilliam-f/