Rock Crystal Quartz Egg

This 7,478ct faceted (240 facets) quartz egg, created by John Sinkankas, originated in Brazil. The metal base is set with 16 small and four larger sapphires. Under ideal conditions, in spacious cavities or other openings in rock, quartz crystals can grow impressively large, sometimes weighing several tons. Clear colorless quartz, called rock crystal, is the most common gem mineral. Rock crystal is used for carvings, chandeliers, and crystal balls. This quartz egg is an outstanding example of the gem cutter’s art and is the largest faceted quartz in the National Gem Collection.

Obtained in an exchange in 1964.