1.04 Ct. Tourmaline from Mozambique

This specimen is a transparent 1.04 carat asscher octagon multi color tourmaline, with dimensions of 6.14 by 5.82 by 3.66 millimeters, an asscher cut executed on an octagonal outline, a clarity grade of very slightly included evaluated at eye level, light color intensity, excellent polish, heat treated enhancement, and origin Mozambique. The asscher cut here is a true step cut with concentric square facets cascading from a relatively large table through a tall crown and deep pavilion, creating a hall of mirrors effect that emphasizes the stone transparency and faceting geometry rather than high dispersion or flashy brilliance. The octagonal outline produces truncated corners that reduce risk of corner chipping and allow for clean mounting in either prong or bezel settings. The cut proportions and facet relationships are calibrated to maximize even light return given the stone size and light color intensity, resulting in a refined interplay between luster and tonal modulation across the crown facets.

From a clarity and inclusion standpoint this tourmaline is typified as very slightly included at eye level, which in step cut material requires careful consideration because the linear facet structure can reveal internal features more readily than brilliant cuts. The inclusions observed are minimal and localized, likely fine needle or crystal inclusions consistent with Mozambique tourmaline, and they do not disrupt the overall transparency or the faceted reflections under typical viewing conditions. The excellent polish minimizes surface interference and enhances the crispness of facet junctions, maintaining sharp facet planes that reinforce the asscher geometry. The heat treatment applied is a standard and stable process for tourmaline, used to reduce unwanted brownish overtones and to harmonize the pastel hues characteristic of multi color material, resulting in improved visual saturation without compromising the gem structure, and this treatment is consistent with industry practice and fully disclosed.

The multi color nature of this specimen manifests as gentle color zoning and pleochroic variation rather than abrupt banding, with subtle shifts observable as the stone is rotated through different lighting angles and orientations. The asscher step facets act as a series of mirrors that stack color planes, yielding a layered appearance that can present distinct tonal ribbons on adjacent facets, and the light color intensity means these hues remain delicate and sophisticated rather than aggressively saturated. The cutting executed on this piece respects the stone volume, preserving weight while producing a pavilion depth compatible with the observed 3.66 millimeter profile, ensuring optimal crown to pavilion balance. Symmetry of facet alignment is precise, which is critical for step cuts because misalignment can produce asymmetrical light leakage or uneven color flow, and the consistent facet junctions maximize the perceived crispness of the octagonal form.

When designing a custom piece around this asscher octagon multi color tourmaline the faceting language and color profile suggest several complementary gemstone strategies. For a classical three stone ring or a gallery pendant, parallel step cut side stones such as tapered baguette diamonds or colorless step cut spinels will echo the asscher facet planes, reinforcing optical cohesion and allowing the tourmaline color to remain the focal point. If contrast is desired, use high clarity colorless diamonds with G or H color and SI clarity to provide a bright, neutral frame that does not compete chromatically, or select warm champagne diamonds to enhance any pink or brown leaning zones. For a color harmonizing approach, select small vibrant green tsavorites to pick up green tonalities in the tourmaline, or rhodolite garnets to complement pinkish zones, while ensuring that side stones are calibrated in tone and saturation to avoid overpowering the tourmaline light intensity. Metal choice also plays a crucial role, with platinum or 18 karat white gold presenting the cleanest modern backdrop for cooler tones, and 18 karat rose gold or warm yellow gold enriching any warmer pinks in the stone, the decision guided by which color zone of the tourmaline the jeweler intends to emphasize.

Technically driven mounting choices will protect and showcase the asscher octagon form, and the cutter s geometry suggests certain setting geometries to maximize visual performance. Orient the octagon so that the primary color ribbon runs parallel to the finger axis in a ring setting or along the chain axis in a pendant to create a dynamic color flow when the piece moves. Use prong settings with subtly tapered prongs at the truncated corners to protect the vulnerable edges while exposing the step facets and large table, or employ a low bezel that follows the octagonal outline for enhanced security while maintaining visibility of crown facets. When incorporating side baguettes choose stones with parallel step facets and align their long axes with the asscher pavilion facet planes to avoid optical conflict and to create a coherent stepped motif. For daily wear applications consider lowering the bezel or using protective gallery architecture because the asscher cut pavilion depth and the acute crown angles can be better preserved with competent setting profiles. The Natural Gemstone Company recommends complimentary certification and bespoke CAD previews for custom designs to ensure facet alignment, color orientation, and setting geometry are optimized for both aesthetic impact and long term wearability.