Elbaite Tourmaline- Goma District, North Kivu, DR Congo

Description

Species: Elbaite Tourmaline⠀
Locality: Goma District, North Kivu Province, DR Congo⠀
Dimensions: 3.7 x 2.1 x 1.1 cm.⠀
SOLD
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Tourmaline crystals from pegmatites in North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have caused a lot of excitement among both mineral collectors and gem cutters and dealers in the past decade or so, due to their exceptional clarity, beautiful range of vibrant colors, and sometimes superb crystal form. Typically found as rough gem nodules in highly-weathered, kaolinized pegmatites, complete well-formed crystals such as this 3.7 cm example are considerably rarer. This gorgeous crystal is gem-clear throughout and has a vivid mint-green color reminiscent of some high-quality Afghani tourmaline. The termination shows a modified pinacoidal form and it’s complexity and perfection contrast very nicely with the glassy prism faces. The crystal weighs 20 grams. Annette Slade photo.