Tourmaline (Elbaite), Lepidolite, and Albite

Unknown Owner

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Where does one even start when appraising such a singular specimen like this? In this case, we will start quite literally from the top. The plateau-esque termination of this huge crystal spans a stunning 9.2 centimeters across (as in, the diameter of the crystal), and all nine of those centimeters covers a wonderfully lustrous and shiny surface, with the edges flashing deep green. Down the body of the crystal, the color transitions into a gorgeous and rich olive green, with hints of pink coming through from under the striated surfaces. To the left of this Elbaite is a very unusual cluster of Lepidolite that can be best described like this: perpendicular to the Elbaite are thick, rope-like rows of parallel growth Lepidolite (from the left side they appear to arrange themselves like a triangle) and are subsequently covered in a secondary generation of small Lepidolite chips, which flash and sparkle brightly all around, particularly on each end of the "ropes." This truly is the perfect cabinet specimen: incredible aesthetics, even more unbelievable size, and a combination of two classic mineral species coming together as one. This specimen comes with a custom acrylic base.