Magenta Ruby in Green Zoisite Polished Obelisk a Unique...

atural Ruby-Zoisite Point – Ruby-Zoisite with Ruby — This lot features an imposing obelisk carved from a single block of Anyolite, the famous metamorphic rock composed of green Zoisite, magenta-red Ruby, and black Hornblende. Originating from Tanzania, the specimen has been worked into a slender, geometric form: a hexagonal prism culminating in a pyramidal tip, designed to enhance the magnificent and vibrant color contrast of the material. The direct observation of the piece, aided by a high-quality mirror polish, reveals a fascinating geological microcosm. The predominant matrix is a green lawn Zoisite, with shades and bands varying in intensity, bearing witness to the different mineral concentrations. Against this vivid backdrop stand inclusions of Ruby, corundum crystals ranging in hue from intense pink to purplish red. These are not uniformly distributed, but appear as “islands” and crystalline aggregates that follow the force lines of the metamorphic process. Complementing the color palette are streaks and patches of deep black, attributed to Hornblende crystals, which add depth and contrast to the whole. The formation of this extraordinary mineral assemblage, also known as Ruby in Zoisite, is linked to intense geological processes. Its origin is almost exclusively confined to the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, the same area of provenance as the precious Tanzanite. Billions of years ago, rocks rich in aluminum and calcium were subjected to extremely high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth's crust. This metamorphic event caused the recrystallization of preexisting minerals, giving rise to the unique coexistence of Zoisite, Corundum (Ruby), and amphiboles such as Hornblende. The name itself, Anyolite, derives from the Maasai term “anyoli,” meaning “green,” in homage to its dominant color. Thanks to its sculptural form and its remarkable dimensions, this obelisk transcends its purely mineralogical value to become a work of art and design. At 23 centimeters tall and weighing over a kilogram, it presents itself as a focal piece, ideal for enriching a natural history collection, a professional study, or a contemporary interior. The obelisk form, historically a symbol of power, stability, and the connection between earth and sky, gives the object an aura of timeless elegance, making it perfect for a modern Wunderkammer. The artisanal workmanship has skilfully interpreted the natural beauty of the raw rock, transforming it into an artifact that celebrates the harmony of contrasts. Each face of the prism offers a different perspective on the casual but balanced distribution of the minerals, inviting tactile and visual contemplation. It is a piece that tells a complex geological story, a fragment of the African continent that unites the primal strength of nature with the elegance of human design.

Estimate:£126.3

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