Borocookeite (very rare) on Rubellite Tourmaline (ex Chet Lemanski Collection)

Item Description

Borocookeite is a very rare Mica species, first reported from the Sosedka Pegmatite Vein of the Malkhan Pegmatite Field. This piece at first glance might appear to be a Rubellite Tourmaline, but the value lies in the fact that it's partially coated with beige colored Borocookeite on a few sides. The Tourmaline is good quality, as it shows a vivid orange-pink hue when backlit, and features sharp, well-formed crystal faces. I can see a few silvery-lilac colored crystals of "Lepidolite" as well for a nice touch. The piece is in very good condition, as the Tourmaline crystal is fully terminated, so it's a great combination of a good quality gem crystal specimen that features an incredibly rare species of Mica. Don't miss out if you collect rarities. Mindat.org only lists a few places in Malkhan Pegmatite Field where the species has been found, so this is very hard to find material.