Tantalite-(Fe) with Cassiterite on Albite - image 1

Tantalite-(Fe) with Cassiterite on Albite - image 2

Tantalite-(Fe) with Cassiterite on Albite - image 4

Tantalite-(Fe) with Cassiterite on Albite

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Pegmatite deposits are known for their stunning gem crystals and, less often, for their rare and stunning metallics as well. This is an example of several metallic species in unexpected combination, with unexpected aesthetics as well. The tantalite crystal is 3.5 cm (approx.) tall, and stands like a vertical tower amidst the flanking wings of a twinned cassiterite crystal for very impressive impact that highlights the differences in shape. Both are exceptional for the location in crystallography, and the balance, contrasted on white albite, is frankly ridiculously good. From the important Afghani-Pakistani regional pegmatite collections of Gene Meieran, assembled during the heyday of production here from the 1980s-currently; although this is an older specimen.