Tourmaline (new find, Jan. 2010)

Item Description

A stunning, riveting, bicolored tourmaline of true gem transparency, from new finds of January 2010. Virgem de Lapa has not produced good gem tourmaline in any size since over 30 years, and this pocket was a huge and important surprise. The coloration and habit is distinct, when seen in person, really quite different than Santa Rosa material which it superficially resembles. I bought the entire pocket, I was so impressed with this material. This crystal is pristine and complete all around save only a small bit of edge wear in the back of the termination. The surface is bright and glassy, but also there is an internal brightness, as well. The color gradation is more evident, and impressive, in person. This is a superb gem crystal, easily backlit and shown to its full potential without need of any strong lighting. Valued $2000-2500. 38 grams