Ruby & Sapphire in Marble, Hunza Valley, Pakistan

Here is a fun combination! The mineral corundum has two gemstone varieties: Ruby and Sapphire. Ruby has a strict definition based on its colour: "pigeon's blood red". Any other corundum colour is deemed a sapphire. A close inspection of this specimen shows a red crystal (ruby) growing beside a purple sapphire. The latter has been naturally etched and does not show full crystal faces, while the ruby is sharp with striated faces. Additionally, crystals, especially gem crystals, tell a better story when they are in the original host rock and associated with other mineral species. This is what makes this corundum specimen so appealing. In addition to the large ruby and sapphire crystals, mica and chondrite (?) are present in distinct bands within the marble host rock. Taken together the chemistry of these minerals helps geologists better understand the conditions of formation of gem corundum. Easily my favourite ruby specimen we are currently offering. From Hunza Valley, Pakistan. Dimensions: 2 cm x 4.5 cm x 4.5 cm