Fine-quality rubies larger than 3 carats are extremely rare, so when Gemfields auctioned a matched pair weighing a total of 45-carats, the jewelry world took notice.
Sourced earlier this year at its Montepuez mine in Mozambique on the southeast coast of Africa, the vivid red rough rubies of exceptional clarity were scooped up for an undisclosed sum by Veerasak Gems of Thailand.
Veerasak Gems founders Mr. and Mrs. Trirotanan, who have specialized in fine rubies for more than 35 years, named the rubies “Eyes of the Dragon.”
"Despite sourcing rubies from all over the world,” said Mrs. Trirotanan, “we were dazzled by this magnificent matching pair and have decided to name them the ‘Eyes of the Dragon’ due to the beauty we see within them.”
It will now be up to Trirotanan's artisans to transform the rough stones into finished jewelry (likely earrings) via a meticulous cutting and polishing process.
“Looking at them makes me tremble,” said Mrs. Trirotanan, describing the "Eyes of the Dragon, “and we are certain that our experience will unveil their full potential for all the world to behold."
The spectacular matched rubies highlighted Gemfields’ recent Singapore auction, where more than $29 million in high-quality rough gems changed hands. The four auctions held since June 2014 featuring Montepuez-mined rubies have generated $122.2 million in total revenue.
Gemfields’ next high-profile auction will highlight fine emeralds from its Kagam mine in Zambia and is scheduled to take place in August.
In recognition of the successful sale of the “Eyes of the Dragon,” Montepuez Ruby Mining Limitada, the local partner of Gemfields, will be providing support for the Niassa Lion Project in the Niassa National Reserve in northern Mozambique.
Larger than Switzerland, this area is home to the African lion, wild dog and elephant. It is also the home to more than 35,000 people across 40 villages, and encounters between villagers and wildlife pose a serious threat to both.
The Niassa Lion Project is dedicated to hiring and training Niassa residents as team members, mentoring young Mozambican conservationists and providing advanced schooling through scholarships.
Images: Facebook/Gemfields
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