Topaz and Lepidolite (1960s famous pocket!)

Item Description

Virgem da Lapa is world-famous for its outstanding, water-clear, natural blue Topaz crystals, often associated Lepidolite crystals. The blue Topaz here is a full 5.5 cm across, and it rests on an amazing bed of 3 cm, columnar books of Lepidolite, among the best-developed crystals of this Mica I have seen from here. But adding to this already significant cabinet specimen is a really mesmerizing and detailed texture to the topaz crystal, with several different patterns visible depending on which side you look at. This is a dramatic and rare cabinet matrix specimen from the famous find of the late 1960s here. . From the large worldwide collection of historical minerals, of George Elling of New Jersey. Stunning blue topaz from the famous 1969 pocket in Brazil is still considered the best and most important of blue topaz finds, worldwide. They are undisputedly natural, whereas we always have to worry atoday bout them irradiating modern colorless topaz finds to turn it blue. Crystals such as this, from the famous 1969 adjoined pockets of purple Hydroxylherderites and blue topaz, are seldom seen for sale and so this makes a rare addition of a gem species and a gorgeous color to any thumbnail collection. For more information see Peter Bancroft's famous book Gem & Crystal Treasures. Valued $7500