Spodumene var. Kunzite with Triphane

Item Description

Most kunzite from Afghanistan has etched/dissolution terminations and so, to find a good crystal with a sharp, geometric, perfectly crystallographic termination is something of a rarity compared to the norm. This large crystal also shows unusual color variation, in that it has a triphane (yellow-green) center with a kunzite (pink spodumene) layer atop, including the termination. When you angle the crystal to get some light going in on the long axis (the c-axis), the pink intensifies and shows strongly as pink to hot pink color - this is typical of most natural kunzites. At just the right angle, seeing both colors, and also the sharp termination, it is strikingly beautiful and impactful; especially given the large size and intact preservation of such a piece. Old material from Herb Obodda's dealer stock. 1.2 kilos of crystallographic perfection!

This specimen is part of the 2024 Dallas Mineral Collecting Symposium benefit auction, donated by The Arkenstone, with proceeds benefiting Mineralogical Record, Rocks & Minerals, Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, and mindat.org. Thanks to all of our participants!

Billing for this auction will occur on Monday, August 19th, for payment using PayPal or a credit card. Shipping will be billed at cost.