Gem: Trapiche sapphire
Weight: 13.72 ct.
Dimensions: 16 x 15 x 7.2 mm
Clarity: N/A - Similar to star sapphire material, the textural phenomenon would not be possible without fairly heavy inclusions. That being said, when backlit, it is a very nice gemmy dark blue.
Origin: Unknown
Treatments: Heated
Comments:
Trapiche sapphires are a fantastic manifestation of sapphires. They are flashy, fibrous patterns in a star shape, included in certain sapphires. The phenomenon is a bit like star sapphire patterns, in that the crystal shape dictates the resulting phenomenon.
Apart from that, my understanding of trapiche gems breaks down a bit. They are typically 5-spoke inclusions in various gems. I have heard of trapiche formations in emerald, ruby, and sapphire, though other gems have similar phenomenon, like quartz.
This piece shows the phenomenon on both sides. It is also faceted on both sides, meaning it is entirely reversible. It also has great heft to it, with an impressive thickness. The girdle is nearly the entire thickness.
The backlit color is an IDEAL royal blue! When not backlit, the pattern contributes to an overwhelming 'denim' vibe. It's pretty rad, considering how flashy the trapiche pattern it; It's like fibrous metal foil trapped within the gem!