Sonora Sunrise/Sunset Chrysocolla Cabochon

This material comes from the northwestern region of Sonora, Mexico and is known for its amazing color play of blue-green chrysocolla and red cuprite, which in some specimens is also contrasted with fantastic inclusions of black tenorite. This freeform cab is showing a wonderful interplay of all three minerals: tenorite dabs the tips of both ends, while the chrysocolla and the cuprite are seen speckled throughout the main body of the stone. There is a more distinct belt of chrysocolla towards the top, while the section heavily dotted with cuprite actually stipples from a faint orange to a deep crimson red, creating a beautiful ombre effect. It's quite subtle.

Though Sonoran Sunset Chrysocolla is soft and may benefit from stabilization, this cab is untreated. It's been my experience that this material cuts quite smoothly; it's dense with a heavy feel in hand and takes a beautiful polish readily - a fantastic material well deserving of its popularity.

Approximate measurements:

Weight: 30.65 carats

Width & Height: 36.2mm x 14.6mm at widest points

Dome apex: 5.5mm

Girdle width: 3.2mm

Finish: All sides polished

Cutting Details: Cabochon Overview