Smithsonite Gemstone (note $100 reserve)

Tsumeb, Namibia
Gems, 1.77 ct, 8.4 mm x 5.3 mm
Start Time: 10/08/2009 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 10/15/2009 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

The famous quote from John Sinkankas was "gems are minerals after all". In our continued efforts to promote the importance of gemstones for ALL collectors, we want to give mineral collectors a chance at a rare cut stone that complements a choice mineral specimen from a classic locality. Some of the finest mineral collections in the world are accompanied by gemstones that either complete a "rough and cut" set for certain specimens, or simply show the beauty of particular species when they are faceted. We are offering this stone as an opportunity for collectors to expand their horizons and purchase gemstones that would supplement crystallized specimens in their collections. I think it is important for collectors to know that faceted stones can expand one's interests in minerals and can add a certain reverence to the hobby of collecting minerals. Smithsonite is a relatively rare gem in facetted stones. I have seen plenty of Smithsonite cabochons, but cut gems are not very common. This stone is nearly colorless (with a very very slight yellowish-golden hue), and is slightly "hazy" which is common even in good Smithsonite gems. The stone has an "Oval" cut, and is a very good size, attractive gem of this material. One does not encounter many of these gems on the market, and no rare gem collection is complete without a good Namibia Smithsonite. Nonetheless, it is one of the very few Smithsonite stones that I have offered in the auctions in the last THREE YEARS; that's how few of them come my way. Enjoy.

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