Smithsonite (classic locality) (cut by Brett Kosnar)

Item Description

Smithsonite is a well-known mineral, found in a wide array of colors from around the world. When it comes to the lapidary side, Smithsonite is typically polished into cabochons, but faceted stones are rare. Most collectors would tell you that the best blue Smithsonites are found at the Kelly Mine in New Mexico. This stone was cut from a broken piece of Smithsonite that came out of an old collection, and has that classic Kelly color. I've had Kelly Mine gems in the past, but they disappear quickly due to the fact that when it comes to U.S. gems, they're always high in demand. It doesn't matter if it's Benitoite from California, Rhodochrosite from the Sweet Home Mine, Hiddenite from North Carolina, Sapphires from Montana, etc., people are buying material from the United States at a higher rate than any point in history. This gem is a beautiful "Custom Octagonal Brilliant" cut stone with a misty interior. It's a good sized stone for what it is, and I think the most important factor is that this is a FACETED gem of Smithsonite and not the typical cabochons we're used to seeing for this material. If you collect U.S. gems or just worldwide Smithsonites, this is a great chance to pick up this attractive stone for your collection for a good price.
The gem was cut by Brett Kosnar, who is a 4-time AGTA Spectrum Award winning gem cutter.