Vesuvianite (odd color for the locality)

Item Description

The world famous Jeffrey Mine was the source for many decades for superb Vesuvianite specimens, which were found in a wide range of colors that spanned from green to red with many subtle variations in between. This piece honestly reminds me more of an Italian Alpine Vesuvianite than something from Canada. The color is more of a golden-brown hue mixed with olive-green tones and immediately makes me think of Bellecombe. I have to say that this one looks better in person than the photos might indicate as the crystals are actually very good quality. They are notably lustrous, smooth, sharp, well-formed and some of them are even a bit gemmy when backlit. The largest crystal measures 7 mm long. The piece is essentially a solid crystallized group of Vesuvianite, and even the back of the piece are crystallized, while the base is recrystallized ("re-healed"). If you collect Jeffrey specimens, you know this color is rare for the locality, and a must have to fill a spot in your collection. It's becoming quite difficult to get your hands on Jeffrey material as the mine is completely defunct and will never produce these amazing specimens again. Valued at $500.