Gem Grade Amethyst Geode Sculpture, Uruguay

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The amethyst geodes from Uruguay are mined from the same rock formation as their relatives just to the north across … Read more The amethyst geodes from Uruguay are mined from the same rock formation as their relatives just to the north across the border into southern Brazil and are igneous (volcanic) in origin. Uruguay amethyst, however, can usually be differentiated from its Brazilian relatives by the typically smaller crystal size and in the case of the higher quality amethyst, the color of Uruguayan amethyst is darker overall. Many of the Uruguay amethyst geodes also contain agate in their shells. Most Uruguay amethyst is mined from open pit mines and the geodes/crystals must go through a sequence of wash/dry cycles to clean off tenacious mud in order to expose the amethyst crystals. It is difficult to acquire whole geodes from this area due to the very hard basalt matrix that the geodes formed in and the tendency for the geode to crack open on its own either through natural processes or during the course of mining, so usually an amethyst half/section or plate is most commonly seen. These geodes are approximately 130 million years old. Uruguay produces the finest and highly sought after gem quality amethyst.
This Amethyst Geode is 9.5"H x 7.5"W x 8.5"D, without stand. This specimen has a large clear cathedral quartz projecting from the vibrant deep purple amethyst geode. Stand is included. See less