Tourmaline Slice

Alakamisy Itenina Commune, Vohibato District, Haute Matsiatra, Madagascar

15 x 15 x .5 cm (5⅞ x 5⅞ x ⅜ inches). 266 grams (.59 lb)

This striking slice is a rare variety of tourmaline known as liddicoatite, celebrated for its vividly colorful interior and distinctive growth pattern. As the crystal forms, each layer is deposited sequentially, encapsulating the previous ones and creating a unique visual history within. Because tourmaline crystallizes in the trigonal system, slicing through a well-formed liddicoatite crystal often reveals stunning triangular geometries and bold, varied coloration. Each cross-sectional slice is entirely unique, with differences in both hue and pattern. The most prized examples are those that feature sharp internal color zoning and display two or more distinct colors.

This particular slice is exemplary, with vivid bands of black, green, and red. At its heart is a striking crimson triangle that immediately captures attention, surrounded by layers of emerald, chartreuse, and black. These colors contrast with striking clarity, forming a highly defined, almost architectural pattern. When backlit, the natural translucency of the crystal enhances its stained-glass-like effect, revealing the full vibrancy of the internal zoning. Most liddicoatite crystals measure only two to three inches across, but this slice comes from a significantly larger crystal, giving it an especially commanding presence.

It was recovered in 2017 from the Alakamisy Itenina Commune in Madagascar. This location does not produce primary crystals, only examples that have been rolled through river beds over hundreds of millions of years have ever been recovered; such as this one. Most of these nodules are poor in quality and do not yield any useable material, making this example exceedingly rare. Upon discovery it was carefully cut into five kaleidoscopic slices, only two of which feature the vivid red center and worthy of collection. Alakamisy Itenina itself is known for only one other significant liddicoatite discovery, a pocket worked between 1991 and 1992. Though more material was recovered at that time, the locality was believed to be exhausted by the end of 1992, and no additional specimens entered the market until this crystal surfaced more than two decades later.

With its rarity, vibrant color zoning, and substantial size, this slice stands out as an extraordinary and memorable example of liddicoatite. It offers a rare glimpse into the intricate and colorful geometry that makes this tourmaline variety so coveted among collectors.

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