Tanzanite with blue Prehnite

Unknown Owner

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Tanzanite is, of course, named for the one location where it forms as beautiful blue crystals in Tanzania....although, actually, it should be properly labelled as a zoisite, variety tanzanite (which nobody does, because it sounds weird and tanzanite is so much in the public eye and mind!). This cluster is unusual because it has matrix, and two crystals rising from a larger tanzanite for display. We almost never see matrix or clusters of tanzanites. The small crystals accenting it are prehnite. Note that this material is often heated to enhance the blue color for sale in the gem trade - and specimens as well. This specimen has been heated to drive a stronger blue color in the specimen, which is considered acceptable with disclosure and pricing. While this is natural shape and form, with no repairs or restorations, the color is enhanced. Nevertheless, it is a gorgeous glowing blue, with highly unusual matrix display, on a shelf. 78 grams.