This 250-carat blue cap tourmaline carving of Quan Yin is an absolute masterpiece, crafted by the studio of the late Pedro Michel from one of the most legendary pockets ever found at the Tourmaline Queen Mine in Pala, California. The material itself is the top-color rubellite with its natural blue cap termination, making this an ultra-rare and historically significant piece.
Measuring 46mm x 45mm x 15mm, the carving captures Quan Yin, the goddess of compassion, riding atop a dragon as she spreads her blessings across the world. The detail and energy in this piece are nothing short of breathtaking, blending the rich pink vibrancy of the rubellite with the ethereal contrast of the blue cap—a testament to both nature’s artistry and the skill of the carver.
This piece holds deep personal significance, as it came from a production I was part of at the Tourmaline Queen Mine in 2001, marking my own entrance into the mineral world. That experience changed everything for me, and this carving embodies the magic of that moment. A true collector’s relic, it’s not just a gemstone—it’s a story, a legacy, and a portal to one of the most fabled discoveries in tourmaline history.