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Howardite aka Rattlesnake Jasper designer gem 3/19/2018 01 - 48 x 22 x 4.3 mm - 29 carats - This stunning cab is cut from one of the most rare and sought after semi-precious stones in the world. The material is said to be an agatized/silicified/opalized tuff of which the location of the deposit is apparently lost or mined out, nobody seems to know exactly. It has been thought to come from northern Nevada. John Sinkankas mentioned in the book "Gemstones of North America" (1959) that this material was more like chert and that it came from California (shown in a photo with other California agates). Regardless of locality it is some of the rarest lapidary materials available. This wonderful designer drop marquis shaped gem features a beautifully rounded low dome, girdled sides and a flat beveled back all with high gloss luster. There are some surface voids - mostly on the back - that do not detract from the quality or beauty of the stone. This stone's colorful patterns suspended in nearly transparent agate make it distinctive and uniquely attractive. This is a very rare, high grade and world class cab of this illusive stone. It is also my best Howardite gem to date. Here is a video clip to see the stone in motion: https://youtu.be/slhgPQXJO5c $225.00 shipped to USA - paypal
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