Exceptional Gemstone: Mandarin Garnet var. Spessartine - 41.76 Ct.. Marienfluss, Kunene Region, Namibia. ...

Description

MANDARIN GARNET

Exceptional Gemstone: Mandarin Garnet var. Spessartine - 41.76 Ct.
Marienfluss, Kunene Region, Namibia

Not far from the crocodile infested Kunene River that forms the border between Angola and Namibia, there is a remote tributary valley on the south (Namibian) bank called the Marienfluss that is host to Spessartine bearing mica schists. Alan Roup who has been deeply involved in mining this material, once said "Also bear in mind that in many ways, Mars is closer to civilization than this place is." In spite of that, the size, color, and perfection of the Namibian material took the gem industry by storm since its discovery in 1991. Later, Nigeria was found to be another source, however the Nigerian production has dwindled to a trickle because the easily gotten material was ... gotten, and the Nigerian material was never quite as good as the Namibian variety, whose orange color, due to a lack of iron in the crystal structure, makes Marienfluss Spessartine still the "gold standard" for this gem. The remote character of the locality, coupled with logistical difficulties in supplying and maintaining a commercial mining operation in Africa, makes for erratic production despite high demand for Marienfluss material. Prices have been creeping upward, especially for large stones such as this 40+ carat beauty. The rough was found in 1997 and it was taken to London to be cut into the oval, mixed cut stone seen here. It shows deep reddish orange color and is eye clean. A cert from the AGL (#65946) confirms that it is entirely natural with no evidence of treatment or enhancement. This is a top gem that has few equals in its class.
Measurements: 21.09 x 16.86 x 13.08 mm, 41.76 cts.
Offered at no reserve.

Provenance: Rainbow of Africa Collection
Accompanied by AGL Certificate # CS 65946

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