Tanzanian Chrome Tourmaline

Design by: Jeff Graham
Faceting by: David Dawson
Weight: 6.20 ct
Availability: Price is available on request through Gordon Aatlo Designs

Faceting Donation for the Green Gem Foundation

Editors Note:

Faceter: David Dawson
Pattern: Signature #4 by Jeff Graham (Modified)
Weight: 6.20 ct
Size:
Clarity: VVS (carbon spots, possible growth tubules)
Color: Medium chrome-forest green (Pinkish-red with jadeite filter)
Treatment: Purchased as untreated
Origin: Tanzania

Why does it seem that, the more expensive the rough, the more I run into obstacles? This tourmaline rough was huge at 16.35 carats, and definitely shaped for a trillion. However, it had a deep chrome green rind in areas that was brittle. This “skin” came off in layers as I tried to perform the stone. I was afraid that by the time I had the stone dopped, it would no longer show that beautiful green.

Through cutting the pavilion and crown, I had to continually modify my cutting plan in order to “strip” away that skin, but yet preserve as much material as possible–all the time being mindful of producing a beautiful gem.

When the stone finally came off the dop, I was thrilled! My fears of having a lightly saturated stone were unfounded. In fact, removing the dark green skin turned out to be a boon. The final color was stunning forest (not olive!) green—the like which is seen only in true “chrome” tourmaline.

A few tiny carbon spots, and perhaps some growth lines, are the only imperfections to be found. Completely eye clean, this is truly a world class stone.
Tanzania Chrome Tourmaline – 6.20 ct Faceted by David Dawson for Green Gem Foundation. This gem is one of the first showcase pieces. 100% of the sale price will directly be applied to one of our new projects in Tanzania and Kenya.

 

Editor’s Note: This gem was treacherous to photograph and just about impossible to capture the correct color. The camera I normally use simply cannot render the correct green. Some color correction was programmed into the process in an attempt to portray accuracy. The yellow seen in the photos above is simply not there in the finished gem. The closest color to describe this stone is simply -Chrome Green- there is no other fitting description. The color in this gem needs be seen in person to be properly defined. -Jeffrey Hunt