Titanite (gemmy twins)

Item Description

While Brazil is best-known for its many pegmatite deposits, the distinctive Titanites from the Capelinha area actually formed in a metamorphic deposit, which is why they are similar to the European Alpine Titanites from places like Austria and Italy. The Capelinha crystals are often larger than their European counterparts, with beautiful defined twinning and often excellent green hues. This piece features a pair of good-sized Titanite crystals, one with a very narrow / "tight" twinning habit, while the other is more broad or "open". One side of the specimen shows excellent luster, while the opposite side has a matte appearance due to a thin coating of pseudo-metallic Chlorite. Minor white Albite (Pericline) can be seen as well for a nice touch. The Titanites are gemmy when backlit, showing predominantly green colors, with some golden highlights here and there. The piece is in decent shape, but not perfect, as there are some visible nicks and contacts, but the fact that the crystals are over 2.5 inches long is impressive, for the species and the locality.