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Danburite from Charcas, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
No. 610: Barion Old Mine Triangle Cut: 14.53 ct., 18.0 x 18.0 x 9.6 mm, VVS, faceted by R. Drummond, $363.25 Sold
Shown above is a collector's gem; danburite. The gem material from Charcas is normally
light pink to nearly colorless and has excellent clarity. Danburite has good hardness
(Mohs 7-7.5) and a refractive index somewhat greater than that of quartz (1.63 vs.
1.54 for quartz). When cut properly, danburite makes exceptionally flashy gemstones.
The above cut, a design by Benjamin Dawso, delivers great light return and scintillation.
This large and expertly faceted gemstone is rather deep and would be best suited
for a large pendant or pin.