Spinel on Quartz and Calcite
stock #18.1-995
Pein Pyit, Mogok, Sagaing District
Mandalay Division,
Myanmar (Burma)
2.8 x 2.3 x 1.3 CM (small miniature/ large thumbnail (toenail))
price: $350
Well exposed, complete octahedron of ruby Spinel perched on a sliver of matrix. A few tiny flecks pf Pyrite are present as well, but mostly this is about the deep red Spinel crystal. This has some of the typical pitting, rounded edges and adhering matrix but is otherwise a very pretty dark red gem crystal, There are a few small gemmy Spinel seen with magnification on the flat sides of the matrix, they are almost invisible by naked eye. Myanmar has a well deserved reputation for exceptional gem crystals, especially for Rubies. However for hundreds of years Spinel were often substituted for Ruby. The gem fields in Mogok produce far more Spinel than Ruby, and it has been increasing in acceptance as a legitimate and valued gem. This is a nice affordable crystal that is above average in quality.
