Here is a fantastic matrix plate hosting several, artistically distributed, doubly terminated fluor-liddicoatite (a variety of tourmaline) crystals from Madagascar. There are seven larger and a few smaller, super lustrous, very gemmy, rich magenta to almost maroon colored crystals isolated well on this gorgeous piece. The larger tourmaline crystals range from 1.5 to 3 cm in length and from 0.5 to 1.5 cm across. The smaller crystals vary from 3 mm to 1 cm and are incredibly transparent with a sparkle to them. They have grown on an etched surface of a large cleavage fragment of off-white microcline for ultimate contrast and presentation. The fracture surface is coated with micro-quartz crystals that just scintillate and add character to the piece. A spectacular and very different type of tourmaline matrix piece with nearly no damage to any of the crystals (one ding and a few contacts, only). The overall look of this, and the fact that we have so many liddicoatite on matrix, is simply unprecedented and unusual. Paul always loved this one. From finds circa 2010, give or take.
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