Tourmaline ex. Smale coll.

Item Description

This tourmaline is a hefty 67 grams (LARGE for this style!) and nearly a cabinet piece in height. For the style, it is extremely robust and thick - most are more slender. The multicolored but mostly reddish cap sits atop a stunning, evergreen-colored body that is at least 90% totally transparent and gemmy. Despite its thickness, you can READ THROUGH this crystal. The internal transparent zones are bright too, very sparkly in their color. The surface is glassy and bright, and complete all around. This is a classic from the "old days" of Brazilian tourmalines, of a style known colloquially as lipsticks for the obvious red cap. From the collection of Dr Steve Smale, purchased in Brazil in the 1980s. Valued $2500