What a remarkable Ruby matrix specimen! This magnificent, red-purple Ruby crystal measures a whopping 4.8 x 3.7 x 3.5 cm and has a textbook, barrel-shaped, hexagonal habit and exhibits fantastic hoppered growth and numerous embayed areas along its length with recessed areas that add an abstract aspect to the crystal. The crystal is has a super rich red-purple color that is opaque in some areas, translucent in others and gemmy in places along the edges, all of which results in glowing crystal with an amazing mottled effect that, combined with its habit and complex surface texture, makes for an incredibly aesthetic piece! Both terminations display triangular shaped growth patterns resulting in sublime geometric markings. The end with hoppered growth is really intriguing with higher relief areas around the periphery and recessed areas in the center and the triangular patterns here are deeply recessed for the ultimate geometric development! The stark contrast of the red-purple Ruby to the ivory colored rounded Scapolite matrix adds to the incredible aesthetics of this unique piece. And how many large Ruby crystals have you seen on matrix? This represents another very fine treasure from the Larson collection. Ex. Saung Oo (local dealer) personal collection. In person, this is one of the most interesting rubies, you will ever see.