Wessels Manganese Mine
Kuruman, South Africa
Sugilite is named for the Japanese geologist, K. Sugi, who discovered it originally in 1944 on Iwagi Island, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. There are only three locations known to produce this mineral (Japan, Quebec and South Africa). The manganese gives it the deep purple color that often makes it highly desirable for jewelry and carvings. Gem cabochons of sugilite, especially those as translucent as this one, are nearly impossible to find in the market today--and specimens of this particular color are unheard of. While deep purple sugilite can be seen on the market, the hue of this present stone--a rich magenta to fuchsia purple is indeed a rarity. Fashioned as a plump pear-shaped drop this gem would create a fine pendant.
Weighing approximately 32.71 carats and measuring 31.0 x 18.0 x 8.0mm