Description
We purchased a small lot of Rhodolite Garnet from Northern Kenya,
around the western shores of Lake Turkana. This is normally not a
region where mining of Rhodolite is common. What was unique about
the lot was the colour, inspite of the size.
The region west of Lake Turkana, Northern Kenya, is settled by the
Turkana and Pokot. They are pastoralists, in Semi-Arid and Arid
Areas. Poverty levels are high, just like in the Semi-Arid and Arid
areas of Tsavo in Southern Kenya. We are attempting to provide a
source of life sustenance, outside of pastoralism, which is subject
to the vagaries of weather. By engaging the youth in meaningful
mining activities, we hope to contribute to the promotion of peace
in the area, which is threatened from time to time by conflicts
arising from cattle rustling. The area is beautiful and peaceful.
You almost wish you carried your mountain bike.
Being a small lot, we opted to facet the gemstones, locally. Kenya
has a few gem cutters. Luckily, most are very good, mostly based in
Nairobi and Voi. They provide their services to local Jewelers, and
surprise... surprise.... foreign buyers. So, I think this resolves
the debate as to whether "International Standards" can be met.
Princess 4.5 mm x 3.5 mm
$ *2.*0
Trillion 5 mm x 5
mm x 5 mm
$ *0.*0
Round 5 mm
$ *3.*0
Round 5 mm
$ *1.*0
Cushion 4.5 mm x 4 mm
$ *4.*0
Oval
7 mm x 6 mm
$
*8.*0
Princess 6 mm x 4 mm
$ *9.*0
Oval
6 mm x 5mm
$
*1.*0
Cushion 5.5 mm x 5 mm
$ *3.*0
Oval
6 mm x 5mm
$ *8.*0
Oval 5.5 mm x 4.5
mm
$ *2.*0
Oval 5.5 mm x 4.5
mm
$ *0.*0
Each pair at $ *0 per carat, saleable in one lot.
