Tourmaline, Quartz and Albite

Unknown Owner

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A truly unique tourmaline pegmatite combination specimen from the historic Malkhan pegmatite field in Russia! This well-composed combination specimen features Tourmaline, Smoky Quartz and Albite in an attractive arrangement. Two stout, translucent, polychrome Tourmaline crystals dominate this piece, one is 5.7 cm tall and 6.5 cm at its widest with smaller one measuring 4.5 cm tall and 3.1 cm across. From the top termination, the large crystal can be seen to be mottled golden olive green and and a pinkish cranberry color displaying a distinct, 2 mm thick, transparent, greenish rim. The smaller crystal is similar, but has more cranberry pink color at the termination compared to the larger one and has a much less distinct exterior rim. Both crystals have a shallow angle pyramidal termination and their prism faces are lightly striated parallel to their length. A single, stubby, satin-lustered Smoky Quartz crystal, dominated by its termination, is prominent at the front of the piece between the Tourmalines. Several stellate rosettes of white Albite decorate the Tourmaline and the Quartz. They consist of bladed crystals to 2 cm and splay out in radiating fashion and as elongate clusters. This is a colorful and well-balanced combination piece that sits perfectly on its own for display. Rock Currier bought this specimen from Victor Zagorsky and Mick Brownfield around the 2000 Denver show. Shockingly, it is not only complete all around, but has no repairs. The style and color really stand out compared to other locations.