SUGILITE (‘ROYAL AZEL’) DESIGNER CABOCHON (AFRICA) – 8.75 ct.

Sugilite from South Africa has been found in gem quality only in recent years. A massive form of this very attractive pink-to-purple stone was discovered while mining deep underground for manganese. Quality material is increasingly scarce and expensive. This gem-quality designer cabochon measures approx. 21.1 x 17.47 x 2.8 mm. It is very tough and strong material and this quality is not often available now. This is from old stock purchased in the 1990s. Great polish on both front and back of this grape-hued gem which features subtle traceries of black. The oval shadow in the image is the reflection of my camera lens. (All uses, N)