This rare specimen features a superb gem quality and SHARP diamond crystal in matrix from Russia. The crystal is a single razor sharp 6-mm-long octohedron. The diamond has been estimated to be just about 1.5 carats. The diamond is gemmy and read-through, absolutely facettable (not just a "reference specimen"). Although it might seem small, it has wonderful visual impact because of the clarity and exposed perch on matrix - although it is actually embedded perhaps 50% in the matrix, so you know it is real. What is more, you can look right through the diamond to the matrix underneath! Around the diamond is a thin white layer you sometimes see, which indicates not a cheap glue but rather an alteration in the surrounding rock due to the chemical heat of formation of the crystal and is a good indication of its origins as natural. These pieces came out in the 1980s, as part of commercial work that Dr. Art Soregaroli was doing in the mining community.