Alexander Gallery

Magazine Antiques, March, 2003

942 MADISON AVENUE, NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10021

TELEPHONE 212-472-1636

* FACSIMILE 212-734-6937

MARTHA Is NOT COOKED Specialists in Brazilian Gems Diamonds, Aquamarines, Topazes, Tourmalines, etc.

Dear Mr. Marvin,

We take pleasure in giving you the history of the Martha Rocha aquamarine stone, which you purchased from us, the 125.88 Ca. unset gem of EXTRA EXTRA QUALITY.

The original MARTHA ROCHA aquamarine rock was discovered in January 1955 in the small town of Crizolita, near Teofilo Otonicity, in the State of Minas Gerais, and named after Martha Rocha, crowned Miss Brasil that year.

It is interesting to note that the original 35k rock was not part of a mine but was found by itself.

No one knows how it arrived at its final resting place.

The 125.88 Ca. stone shown in your possession was the largest gem taken from the original rock and was cut for the collection of the owners of that rock, Mr. Irineu Oliveira, Fausto Miglio, Bonciano Souto e Jose Alves Soares. Mr. Jose Alves Soares in turn sold the stone to Gregory and Sheehan in 1957. When Mr. Gregory retired he sold the Martha Rocha stone to Mr. Alberto Ferreira de Castro, present owner of Gregory and Sheehan, who brought same for his private collection.

The above aquamarine was not for sale, however, as Mr. de Castro is now retired, he has given you, an old and valued customer, the chance to acquire this magnificent jewel.

The 125.88 ca. MARTHA ROCHA aquamarine is a museum piece of EXTRA EXTRA QUALITY. It is one of the darkest blue aquamarines ever found. In fact, the stone is recognized by its special tone of blue. It is the largest stone piece cut from the Martha Rocha rock and is flawless.

As a matter of interest, the Brazilian Government gave a set of MARTHA ROCHA aquamarine stones to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of England at her coronation. The set consists of a ring, necklace and bracelet, which were selected from Gregory and Sheehan collection and mounted by Mappin & Webb.

MARTHA ROCHA aquamarines do not exist in the market anymore, as the gems from the original rock have been dispersed and are only found in private hands.

Assuring you of our best attention and at your orders for any further information, we are

Yours sincerely,

Luiz S.F. de Castro