A hidden gem
ROSEBANK - KNOWN for its exquisite selection of handmade designer jewellery, Dragons Lair is the home of a unique tourmaline museum.
According to store owner Gillian Glyn-Jones, there is nothing else like it anywhere in South Africa.
“This little gem of a museum is a must for tourists who love gemstones,” said Glyn-Jones.
The focus of the museum is on the tourmalines found in South Africa. “There is not a great deal of tourmaline in the world and it is highly prized. It is also very beautiful and is found in more colours than in any other gemstone in the world,” Glyn-Jones explained.
“It is exciting to see the uncut gems still in the base rock or ‘matrix’ as it is called. Tourmaline forms slowly over millions of years in pockets (pegmatites) deep in the rock and it has to be mined,” she said.
There are also beautiful examples of faceted tourmalines in a wonderful array of different colours at the museum.
“The museum is an exciting and fascinating trip for young and old. It is a brilliant place to entertain and educate children who have inquiring minds, particularly those showing an interest in the world and its wonders,” said Glyn-Jones.
Although none of the stones in the museum are for sale, there is some tourmaline, and jewellery featuring tourmalines for sale in the shop.
The most frequently-asked-for tourmaline crystals are the black ones known as Schorl which are popularly known as the stones for protection.
Details: 011 788 0014; www.dragonslair.co.za
