Description
This is a high grade strand of bright purple mostly “gel” sugilite beads complemented by solid 18k gold beads and clasp. It has a custom cut and matched 5.15 ct sugilite focal bead at the center although the bead is a touch darker than the rest of the strand. The last photo in the series shows four sugilite necklaces for comparison.
I have attempted to capture the true color of the necklace however it will change color under different lighting. In full sunlight it will look pinkish/purple and in subdued natural light it will look more redish/purple. Under incandescent lights it tends to look more red. I have been photographing sugilite for over five years with a number of different cameras and it has a tendency to fool image sensors in digital cameras.
Sugilite is a relatively new gemstone that is found only in South Africa and is no longer commercially available. The rondelle beads in this strand range from approx. 8 mm down to 4.0 mm except for the center bead which is 20.0 mm long and 12mm wide at the widest point. Wire protectors, and crimps, which are subject to wear/stress, are made with gold filled components for greater durability.
Beware of fake sugilite and simulants for sale on the Internet. I have seen dyed chalcedony and jasper marketed as sugilite. You can be confident that you get what you paid for at ARJ.
Learn more about Sugilite at this link.
