Rare Charoite - Large Gemstones - Exceptional Colour
Two highly polished charoite gemstones with rich purple colour and vivid patterns. The larger of the two, the cabochon on the left, shows slight chatoyance.
These AAA-grade stones were bought in 2006, but we have only recently decided to add them to our website.
Charoite is a rare mineral from Russia's Far East. It has never been widely available, and the amount that can be mined each year is limited to one hundred tons.
Due to the current political situation in Russia, charoite has become even more difficult to source, and material of this grade is scarce.
Stones from India are often oily when photographed, which enhances the colour and lustre. Most stone suppliers store cabochons in oil to prevent scratching. Many of the photos in online marketplaces have also been digitally enhanced.
Some charoite from China has also been shown to contain traces of dye.
The colour of these stones is natural and looks even more impressive when they're in your hand.
Details
1. 48.5g 5.1 x 5.3 x 0.9cm £88
2. 41.4g 4.6 x 5.3 x 0.8cm £75
