Vesuvianite var. Manganoan

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Purple vesuvianite crystals, colored a rich and unique hue by manganese within, are literally iconic specimens from the famous Jeffrey Quarry and are considered by many of us to be best of species. Here is a fine small miniature with shocking color and luster. (It is a large thumbnail if you tilt it just so!). Although small, compared to some green vesuvianite, this is a relatively large crystal for what it is. It dates to the 1980s and we purchased it directly (around 2010) in the collection of Francesco Spertini, the well known mine geologist during the heyday of this operation (now, sadly, defunct and closed). Spertiniite is named in his honor, in fact. I have always recalled this specimen as a fine example of the color and style, and was pleased to get it back not long ago.