1395

Natural emerald matrix.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Rocks, Fossils & Minerals Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 7,500.00 USD
Natural emerald matrix.
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This item SOLD at 2009 Apr 09 @ 21:30UTC-4 : AST/EDT
All items are genuine unless noted. Most shipwreck coins and artifacts come with a certificate of authenticity (please check the description for each item).
Natural emerald matrix. 69.9 grams, roughly 1½" x 2" x 1". This natural chunk of calcite rock contains two long crystals of emeralds that have to be among the highest-grade natural crystals ever found on a shipwreck, our theory being that the miners in Muzo (Colombia) decided the whole piece had to be shipped to Spain intact to receive the best care possible in removing the crystals from the surrounding matrix, which, incidentally, includes many little bits of sparkly pyrite ("fool's gold") in addition to dark-orange ferrous material in the gray matrix that also shows a bit of encrustation. The better of the two emerald crystals is at least ½" long and is dark green and somewhat translucent. Our guess is that the total emerald weight exceeds 50 carats. A fabulous natural artifact that undoubtedly had great value in the 1700s as well. From the Capitana El Rubí and pedigreed to Art McKee's Sunken Treasure Museum, with certificate.