SUGILITE (‘ROYAL AZEL’) DESIGNER CABOCHON (AFRICA) – 17.41 ct.

Sugilite from South Africa has been recognized as gemstone only in recent years. A massive form of this very attractive and rare pink-to-purple gem was discovered while mining deep underground for manganese. Quality material is increasingly scarce and expensive. This gem-quality designer cabochon measures approx. 28.78 x 18 x 4.78 mm. This quality is not often available now. This necklace focal stone was cut from old stock purchased in the 1990s. Great polish on both front and back of this grape-hued gem which features subtle traceries of other minerals. (All uses, N)