So often, when we see gems & minerals, it is rarely in their natural state.  After they’ve been cut and polished and set, they seem to lose some of their inherent beauty and mystery.  Toronto artist Carly Waito pays homage to these multi-faceted marvels in her small, exquisitely detailed paintings.

Waito uses macrophotography to record the color and intricacies of each cluster, which she then translates into oil.

Through a process of layering, she captures in paint the amazing depth and prismatic qualities that give gems their luster and appeal.  By isolating the minerals in their natural state, Waito celebrates their innate beauty.

The visual textures in these small works are simply stunning.  And by keeping the works small, Waito invites us in to look closer and really examine the tiny details that make each gem so precious.

To see more of Carly Waito’s work, please visit her website.

Artist found via The Art Stormer.

Featured image is Flourite 2, oil on masonite, 10×12.  All images are via the artist’s website.