A FINE TANZANITE DOUBLE CRYSTAL

A FINE TANZANITE DOUBLE CRYSTAL

Merelani Hills, Lelatema Mts, Arusha Region, Tanzania

The crystal surface shows a glassy luster and is quite gemmy, measuring 2½ x 1¾ x 7/8 inches (6.35 x 4.45 x 2.22 cm).

Tanzanite is one of the few gem materials that displays different colors depending on which direction the viewer looks through the crystal. It is not unusual to see: Sapphire blue, golden orange and reddish purple – all in the same crystal. When facetted, it is this property of changing color that gives Tanzanite its stunning allure and value. Therefore, uncut crystals of Tanzanite with clean areas of facetable material are so rare.

This double crystal gem is natural and has not been heat treated which is extremely uncommon as most Tanzanites, even uncut material, are heated to bring out rich colors of blue, red and purple and eliminates the orangey-brown undertones.

Viewing from any one of the three possible directions of this natural double crystal produces strikingly different results: under incandescent light, one axis shows deep purple with reddish highlights, the second axis shows a sapphire blue and the third axis displays a deep pinkish-orange-red hue that is quite unexpected.

PROVENANCE

Heritage Auctions, Beverly Hills, June 2010

Private New York collection from 2010 till the present