Muscovite pseudomorph after Tourmaline (excellent) (ex Wouter Van Tichelen Collection)

Item Description

This is arguably the finest example of these rare and unusual pseudomorphs that we've had to offer from the Sapo Mine. These specimens hit the market in 2010, and made a huge splash among collectors for their uniqueness and visual beauty. Typically, Muscovite isn't always found in collector quality display specimens, but these pieces are a wonderful exception. This cabinet sized display specimen features a pair of attractive columns of beautiful semi-metallic, silvery-bronze colored hexagonal Muscovite blades which have completely pseudomorphed / replaced the preexisting prismatic Tourmaline crystals. The underside of the specimen is not hollow, like some we've seen, so the piece is solid Muscovite all around. The base of the specimen features an attractive diverging group of additional Muscovite crystals, creating a fantastic flair and three-dimensional quality. Overall the piece is in great condition, though some minor bruising can be seen in a few spots. If you collect pseudomorphs, pegmatite minerals, specimens from Brazil or just unusual pieces, this is a fantastic example of these hard to find and high-quality specimens from this well-known mine in Brazil. Valued at $4,000 in the inventory. Ex Wouter Van Tichelen Collection.