24170 - Chrysanthemum Stone - Kikka-ishi - 6¼in (16cm)

Neo valley chrysanthemum stone, or, the "Dragons Eye" as I've thought of it since I first saw it. 

Most Chrysanthemum stones are polished, this stone has been worked to remove some of the surrounding matrix, revealing a single flower which has two layers of petals and which elongates to the right. Other mineral deposits add colour and interest.

This stone could add unique interest to any mixed display, either harmonising with shape or flowers on a tree, and of course is fantastic just on it's own.

Size: 159 x 58 x 87mm (6¼ x 2¼ x 3⅜ in)

SKU: 24170

Condition: Stone - Excellent, Daiza - some cracking, but intact, see pictures.

Source: Neo Valley, Gifu Prefecture Japan.

Flower stones come from just a few places in the world, and even fewer are of a high enough quality to be regarded as suiseki.

The formation process is unique and interesting; In the Permian period 298-250 million years ago, minerals within a mud matrix crystallised, growing outwards in radial patterns, all of which was subject to compression that then hardened into stone.

Many fascinating variations have been found and collected, from palm sized to metres big.