gem Topaz on Cleavelandite

Item Description

A highly unusual Afghani topaz because the crystal is mirror bright, clear, and gemmy! It looks like old (and very expensive!) Brazilian material. The crystal is just over an inch across and stands about the same tall from the front display, although the crystal does extend deeper down into matrix. This is so rare from Afghanistan, I was stunned to see it in Gene's extensive suite from there rather than in his Brazilian hoard. Keep in mind, he's been doing this since the 1950s, and so I defer to his knowledge and experience....but it was a surprise!