Newly donated to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a collection of hand-carved gemstones in the shape of musical instruments. The collection currently is on display in the atrium of GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, Calif. The 21-piece collection, named “The Symphony,” depicts various musical instruments ranging from violins to a saxophone and a piano.
The suite was donated by Art Sexauer, a longtime gem and mineral collector. Each instrument is a one-of-a-kind piece. The collection comprises approximately 7,638 cts. of gem material, including tourmaline, malachite, lapis, rose quartz, onyx, tiger-eye, amethyst, citrine, turquoise, and obsidian. For information on the GIA collection, and how to make donations, contact Patricia Syvrud at (800) 721-7250, ext. 4432.