Cassiterite with Tourmaline (rare association) (ex Brian Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

The great tin mine at Viloco (sometimes called Araca) has produced some of the most magnificent Cassiterite specimens extant, and a very small percentange of these pieces are actually associated with rarely seen TOURMALINE! This particular specimen hosts several, several fine, sharp, highly lustrous, slightly gemmy, dark golden brown cyclic twinned crystals of Cassiterite forming clusters measuring up to 1.1 cm across associated with minor Quartz crystals and small acicular greenish-black crystals of Tourmaline! This association is seen in only a handful of Cassiterite specimens from this historic loaclity. This is a very attractive piece and one of the better ones for quality, luster and crystal size that I've seen in recent years. I have to stress that the luster and gemminess on these Cassiterite crystals is very good, and when combined with the very hard to find Tourmaline association, this piece is certainly special, and worthwhile for any collector. From the collection of Brian Kosnar. Valued at $750.