SOLD
JB17-1925
Tanzanite
Merelani Mines, Merelani Hills, Arusha, Tanzania
Small Cabinet, 5.9 x 2.1 x 1.7 cm
Ex. Matt Tannenbaum; Norman and Roslyn Pellman
SOLD
This is "The Pellman Tanzanite," widely known at the time as one of the finest in its size class, from the early years of mining and specimen production here. It was sold to the Pellmans in the 1990s by Daniel Trinchillo and remained in their collection until its sale and dispersal, where it went directly into the collection of Matt Tannenbaum of Idaho Falls and disappeared from sight. At the time, and still today, it remains an exceptional example of the gem tanzanite crystals from this mine, for its deep color and most importantly for its sharp and fancy, complex termination. It shows all three colors on different axes, and is a rare natural and unheated crystal with the top blue and top purple saturation that the gemcutters are after. It has stellar luster. The termination, to this day 20 years after I first saw the piece in the Pellman home in Tucson, makes it special. Photo by Joe Budd. Comes with a custom lucite base. Ex. Dr. Matt Tannenbaum collection. Rotating video available for streaming at https://goo.gl/PR1rQM