Vivianite on Siderite w/ painting

Item Description

A 2.7 cm doubly terminated parallel-growth vivianite crystal is aesthetically set on the sculptural sparkly siderite matrix from the famous Huanuni Mine. The pristine crystal has classic shimmering deep blue-green color and there is a translucent greener section at the base. A bit of siderite is attached to part of the pristine upper termination. From the private collection of internationally known wildlife artist Gamini Ratnavira (http://www.gaminiratnavira.com), who started collecting small mineral specimens many years ago after exposure to the mineral community in his residence of Fallbrook, California. For a number of years, Gamini made mineral watercolors for private collectors on commission for $500 each. For his own enjoyment, he also made watercolor paintings of all of his pieces, and the painting is included here with the specimen (7 x 7 x cm paintings set in custom 14.5 x 14.5 cm frames). This is a fine example of this painting skill.