Tourmaline (bicolor)

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. Tourmalines are some of the most diverse and popular gems out there. They're one of the few gems that occur in natural bicolor stones as well. The majority of bicolor Tourmalines on the market today are found in either Afghanistan or Brazil, and remain as some of the most attractive gems in the world. This stone shows a rich yellow-green color on one end, and a nearly colorless hue on the other end. It has slight inclusions, which is not bad for one of these stones, especially in this size. Tourmaline is classified as a "Type 3" gemstone, as inclusions are almost always present, and accepted by dealers and collectors. I have to say that these stones are becoming harder and harder to find these days with so much gem Tourmalines coming out of Africa lately. It is a great naturally occurring bicolor gem for your collection. The cut on this gem is a "Step Square Cushion" cut. Valued at $236.60 high retail.