Details
ColorsBrown
Origin
Novo Horizonte, Bahia, Brazil
SizeMiniature
Dimensions3.0 x 1.5 x 1.2 cm
Description
From a small find in January, this is a shockingly large and well-developed xenotime crystal with unusually good luster, rich chocolate color, and unusually equant crystalllographic form. Furthermore, clusters are rare, of this species, particularly from Brazil. This crystal is complete all around, 360 degrees, although has attached rutile and some matrix on the back face, and has a small bit of wear to the termination. As a final accent, we have inclusions of golden rutile in the xenotime, included 0.1 to 1 mm below the surface (though the photo makes it look like they are on the surface, that is an illusion - actually they are under a thin translucent layer of xenotime). There is also freestanding surface rutile on back. A pocket the size of a basketball was hit, and I cherry-picked the choice specimens from this very surprising find!
Known provenanceKnowing where your specimen comes from and who owned it adds to its story and value. Good provenance helps prove it's authentic and preserves important details about its discovery.