Spinel, Calcite

Unknown Owner

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Matrix specimens of Spinel are uncommon, but to find gem quality crystals on matrix is extremely difficult. This piece hosts a classic Burmese "Ruby Spinel" crystal measuring 6 mm and has very sharp, defined, lustrous, octahedral faces with a gemmy bright pinkish-red color. The crystal sits atop a matrix of massive white/grey Calcite as is typical for this locality. The piece is very showy and aesthetic for the material. This piece was mined around 2000, and is one of the finest Spinels from the Richard Kosnar Collection. This is an example of a non-pegmatite gem mineral for which many collectors probably do have a good specimen in their collections.