Ludlamite

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Ludlamite was historically a rare species. Sharp crystals from Bolivia or Idaho set the standard and commanded a large premium. However, as happens rarely in mineral collecting, one new locality has upended the old standards and as a result there are now abundant crystals of this gorgeous phosphate species. Prices on a fine Brazilian ludlamite are very, very reasonable compared to anything even remotely comparable from the older locales. Brazil produced literally tonnage of ludlamite in the last few years… but you should buy while plentiful. However, they are not all as beautiful or high in quality as this piece. Also, most Brazilian ludlamite is on a fairly ugly rocky and sandy-colored matrix, so large specimens are simply often rocks (or fossils) with beautiful crystals atop - not suitable for a lot of collectors. Sharp crystals to 1 cm which have a high glassy luster and a deep and pretty color on this thin plate is more attractive than so many of the larger specimens out there today.