Ruby on Marble - image 1
Ruby on Marble - image 2
Ruby on Marble - image 3

Ruby on Marble

Unknown Owner
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An impressive ruby specimen from the classic ruby mines here which date back even to Roman times. Large crystals in matrix are rare. Large GOOD crystals in matrix are almost unheard of. This is a rare example of such a piece, with a dominating 3 x 3 x 1.2-cm crystal sticking straight up and completely exposed on either side (a risky bit of prep work, that was!). The crystal is pristine and complete. As you can see it is also highly translucent and glows when backlit. This specimen was formerly in the Joe Freilich collection built by Dave Wilber, which was on short notice auctioned at Sotheby's in 2001. It was in Wally Mann's collection here in Dallas by 2003, where it has remained til now. Comes with custom base though I have to say it displays equally well from EITHER side.

Product details

SpeciesRuby
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions7.6 x 6.7 x 4.0 cm
Added on10/23/2024
LocalityAfghanistan, Kabul, Jegdalek ruby deposit

Known provenance

DateCollectorAcquisition price
08/2024Unknown OwnerNot disclosed
—The ArkenstoneNot disclosed

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Ruby
Mineral guide
Learn about Ruby
red corundum known for vivid pigeon-blood color, 9 Mohs hardness, and dramatic matrix on marble or zoisite; prized for rarity and notable localities.
Ruby
Regional guide
Ruby from Jegdalek Ruby Deposit, Afghanistan
Jegdalek Ruby Deposit, Afghanistan — marble-hosted corundum yielding vivid rubies and pink sapphires; prized for blue zoning, backlit glow, and collector appea…