14.43 ct. Montana Sphalerite with Iridescence
Color: Medium Dark Slightly Brownish Yellow-Green
Clarity: Slightly to Moderately Included
Origin: PC Mine, Basin Dist., Jefferson Co., Montana
Cut: Custom Triangle
Treatments: None
Measurements: 18.5 x 13 mm
A very large and visually impressive gem Sphalerite with the added attraction of a scarce US locale. Most examples of this species cut from US deposits come from limited areas of Colorado, New Mexico or New York - this is one of the fewt Montana gem we have offered. This one has a rather special effect as well; at first glance you may think it simply a slightly included, albeit very well cut, stone. If you study it a bit more closely you will be rewarded - the fluid inclusions just below the table are lined up in just the perfect way to provide a flash of iridescence across the surface. What is quite striking is that the flash spans the full spectrum - you can stop the rotation to highlight the reds and orange, or more along into the blues and greens. It does take a little effort to get the light just right, but there is no doubt you will be impressed. A remarkable stone of exceptional size from this locality and a fantastic US collector's piece.