Rare bi-colored Tanzanite (28 grams) - superb crystal with high luster

Item Description

Rare, bi-colored, tanzanites were prominently featured in the 2009 Mineralogical Record issue on the Merlani Tanzanite Mines. This striking gem crystal has rare trigonal form, rather than the common tabular form. The striated termination is a very glassy greenish-yellow with a crackly interior. The lower two-thirds is quite gemmy with some horizontal layers and the trigonal form displays the classic, 3-way pleochroism found in many zoisites: pleasing purple; light blue; and shades of red. The backlit shot really shows the color variations. Complete all-around and pristine. One lower face and corner are contacted, but there is no damage, per se. This is a much in demand, highly representative rarity. 28 grams mass. Valued at $2500.