An exceptional example of the highly rare crystalized copper gemstone, cuprite, this collector's marquise cut gem measures almost an inch in length.  The color is a deep crimson red that plays brilliantly in the sunlight.  Discovered in a small South African deposit in the 1950's, this particular stone's origin has since been mined out.

Due to the softness of this stone, we do not suggesting setting it into jewelry; faceted cuprite is a curiosity meant to be enjoyed as part of a loose, exotic gemstone collection.  We also suggest handling the stone as little as possible.  The stone's surface has developed a natural, copper-crusted patina.