Shattuckite, 1.49 cts., 13.0x9.0 mm., Freeform Cabochon, DRC, Stabilized

Gem: Shattuckite and Bisbeeite 
Weight: 1.49 cts. 
Size: 13.08x9.00 mm. 
Color: Electric Blue to Deep Ceylon Blue 
Clarity: Opaque 
Cut: Freeform Cabochon 
Locality: Democratic Republic of the Congo 
Treatment: Stabilized 

Here is something truly special.  This is a freeform cabochon of Shattuckite and Bisbeeite from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  This material came out in 2013 in one of the largest finds of Shattuckite in history.  The deposit was not large and produced just 2 pockets of this acicular formation of the mineral.  The patterns and growth of the pieces are actually a replacement of Shattuckite and Bisbeeite after Malachite.  Once cut, the patterns look nearly identical to the beloved green Malachite.  This replacement and the exact chemistry of this material may never be found again, and thus these pieces are each irreplaceable.  The mineral is actually quite brittle for cutting, so we have stabilized it with a similar process that is used for Turquoise.  The impregnation process is of a polymer that is pressurized throughout the entire piece at over 5,000 psi.  This material was written up in The Journal of Gemology, Volume 34, No.8, 2015.  Many people have related the patterns to Victoria stone or Larimar, however these pieces have a distinct and unique appearance. 

This stone displays and exceptional pattern of alternating dark and bright blue colors.  The color just lows in hand and is breathtaking.  The freeform shape is artistic and unique to match the material.  We have been so proud to be able to work with and offer this truly exceptional material.  Cut at Kosnar Gems, Colorado, USA.  Enjoy!