Deep
blue or Double blue is rarely found in large clean pieces anywhere
in the world. Continuous production of such colour is un-heard of,
which keeps Zambian production in great demand.
Lighter shades of
this gem can be found in other countries (Nigeria, India) but popularity
is growing for the deep blue green variety presently found in the Katete / Petauke area for its beautiful natural sea blue / green
hue.
Zambian double blue is still readily sold overseas as 'Santa
Maria L'Afrique' conjuring a mystique over its source. Prices for
such gems have been known to reach over $ 800 per carat!
Lighter shades of
this gem can be found in other countries (Nigeria, India) but popularity
is growing for the deep blue green variety presently found in the Katete / Petauke area for its beautiful natural sea blue / green
hue.