Corundum var. Yellow Sapphire

Unknown Owner

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A very gemmy YELLOW sapphire, from the famous gem gravel deposits of Sri Lanka. So many crystals of such gemminess as this one are simply heated to turn them into various colorful shades for the gem trade, that fewer and fewer crystals survive the mining. Although slightly worn and rounded by natural action, as is typical from the gem gravel deposits, this crystal has a lovely shape and a good form to it. The gemminess and transparency are greater in person than in the photo. 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 cm paintings set in custom 14.5 x 14.5 cm frames). Gamini is a native of Sri Lanka and a "living treasure," and collected Sri Lanka minerals when he could.