Elbaite

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In terms of gem pegmatite discoveries in Brazil, the Coronel Murta deposits in Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais state are quite new, but have produced wonderful colour-zoned Elbaite crystals. This admittedly small-miniature crystal presents the classic strawberry-pink to teal blue/green colour combination for which these pegmatites are renowned. Off-matrix, but with a few small clusters of pale grey Lepidolite crystals dotted around the base, this short, stubby, terminated Elbaite crystal is actually tri-coloured, with a gooseberry-coloured tip, following on from its teal blue-green central- to upper band and strawberry-pink base. Its termination, which is in excellent, damage-free condition, is dominantly a classic 'tourmaline' three-sided pyramid but with three small truncated corner faces. A really fine smaller Coronel Murta Elbaite.