Liddicoatite Tourmaline

Unknown Owner

A splendid example of the relatively rare Tourmaline Group member, Liddicoatite, from Anjanabonoina Pegmatite in Betafo District, Antananarivo Province, Madagascar. This ex. matrix large miniature measures 6.2 cm tall and is gemmy to translucent strawberry red. When back lit (see photograph) the crystal's excellent transparency becomes apparent. Liddicoatite is similar in composition to Elbaite and is named for Richard T. Liddicoat (1918-2002), a gemmologist and former president of the GIA (Gemmological Institute of America). This species of Tourmaline is uncommon in collections making this is a great opportunity to acquire a fine Madagascan example.