Rare "Trapiche" Uvite Tourmaline

Item Description

One of the most interesting, exciting and unique finds in recent memory. These Tourmalines were described in the 2007 issue of Gems and Gemology and were described as being the first occurrence of "Trapiche" Tourmaline known. The term "Trapiche" has traditionally been used to describe the naturally 6-ray star Emerald gems from Colombia. According to esmerald.com The term "Trapiche" is a Spanish word for a "spoked wheel used to grind sugar cane which bears a striking resemblance to the pattern in these emeralds". The black "spokes" are caused by carbon inclusions, which is the same material that causes the "Trapiche" effect in these new Tourmaline stones. Now, the effect can only be seen if the Tourmaline crystals are sliced perpedicular to the c axis, but it is strikingly similar to the Emerald gems from Colombia. Both Beryl and Tourmaline have a hexagonal crystal form, and the black carbon inclusions radiate from a central point in the crystal outwards to the edges in both cases. What might be most exciting about these Tourmaline gems is the fact that they are not Elbaite, but the less common species Uvite! which gets its green color from a Vanadium chromophore. In fact, the color in these Tourmalines is such a vibrant green, that early parcels of the material were actually sold as being Emeralds! This particular piece is a flat polished slice of "Trapiche" Tourmaline with a beautiful internal blue-green color, and several distinct branching "arms" of black carbon radiating from the center. It is one of the VERY few pieces of this material that I have encountered, and from all accounts, it seems that this find was extremely limited. A wonderful collector's gem, especially if you're a Tourmaline collector. I was completely intruiged by this material when I first saw it, and it remains one of the most incredible new finds I have seen in recent years. Do not miss out on this one as we have only a few to offer!