Hand-Carved Blue Spinel in Quartz Flame Tower - Madagascar (7.5 inch, 3.5lb)

Rare Hand-Carved Blue Spinel in Quartz from Madagascar

This extraordinary blue spinel in quartz specimen represents a unique combination of natural mineral beauty and skilled artisan craftsmanship. Featuring rare blue spinel crystals naturally embedded in translucent quartz, this substantial piece has been hand-carved with geometric details and polished to a high luster, creating a stunning display piece that bridges the gap between natural mineral specimen and decorative art.

Specimen Details

Minerals: Spinel (Blue), Quartz
Weight: 1.6 kilograms (approximately 3.5 pounds)
Dimensions: 7.5 inches (19 cm) tall, 191 x 155 x 37mm (7.5 x 6.1 x 1.5 inches)
Preparation: Hand-carved and polished
Locality: Madagascar

Visual & Mineralogical Characteristics

The specimen showcases rare blue spinel crystals naturally occurring within translucent to white quartz matrix. Spinel, a magnesium aluminum oxide, is prized by both mineral collectors and gemstone enthusiasts for its hardness (Mohs 8), brilliance, and range of colors. Blue spinel is particularly uncommon, making specimens showing this color especially desirable. The quartz host provides a translucent backdrop that allows light to interact with the spinel crystals, creating depth and visual interest.

The piece has been expertly hand-carved with geometric facets and details that enhance the natural beauty of the minerals while creating an artistic sculptural form. The polished surfaces reveal the clarity of the quartz and the color of the spinel crystals, while the carved details add human artistry to nature's creation.

Madagascar: A Gemstone & Mineral Paradise

Madagascar is world-renowned for producing exceptional gemstones and mineral specimens, including some of the finest spinel crystals available. The island's complex geology has created ideal conditions for the formation of a wide variety of minerals, making it one of the most important sources for collectors and gem dealers worldwide. Blue spinel from Madagascar is particularly prized for its color and crystal quality.

Formation & Artistic Enhancement

The spinel in quartz formed through metamorphic processes where aluminum and magnesium-rich rocks were subjected to high temperatures and pressures. The spinel crystallized within quartz veins or pockets, creating the natural mineral association visible in this specimen. After extraction, skilled artisans hand-carved the piece, adding geometric facets and details that complement the natural mineral forms while creating an aesthetically pleasing sculptural object.

Display & Collector Value

At 1.6 kilograms and standing 7.5 inches tall, this specimen offers museum-quality presence suitable for prominent display in home, office, or collection. The substantial size and hand-carved details make it a statement piece that commands attention. Carved mineral specimens from Madagascar have shown strong appreciation in value, particularly for pieces featuring rare minerals like blue spinel combined with skilled artisan work.

The piece serves multiple purposes: as a display specimen showcasing rare blue spinel, a decorative art object combining natural minerals with human craftsmanship, a conversation piece bridging geology and art, or an investment in unique Madagascar material. The combination of rare blue spinel, substantial size, hand-carved details, and polished finish ensures long-term appeal to collectors of both natural minerals and mineral art.

Display Recommendations: Best appreciated under bright lighting that highlights both the blue spinel crystals and the polished quartz surfaces. The carved geometric details create interesting light and shadow effects. Consider positioning on a rotating stand to showcase the three-dimensional carved form from all angles. The substantial weight requires sturdy display base or shelf.

Care Instructions: Both spinel (Mohs 8) and quartz (Mohs 7) are relatively hard and durable. Handle carefully to avoid dropping or chipping carved edges. The polished surface can be cleaned with soft, damp cloth if needed; avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Display away from extreme temperature changes. The polished finish will maintain its luster with minimal care, simply dust as needed to keep surfaces clean.

All specimens include a label bearing the mineral name and origin as well as provenance label(s) for the specimen, if any.

Note: Each piece is handpicked for quality and uniqueness.