A MAJOR example of a rare species from a locality not known for this species: A superb GEM quality petalite, from the gem tracts of Burma. This piece has an unusual smoky color and high luster to it, such that we had to check it to be sure it was not quartz (even though the mass was wrong for quartz)! Glassy and gemmy, with a beautiful smoky color, this petalite crystal, with a hardness of 6 1/2, was somehow saved from the cutters and ended up years ago in the collection of Burma expert Bill Larson. This rather uncommon species is a lithium, aluminum silicate, normally colorless - and is seldom colored as richly as this crystal. This specimen is a floater, complete all around, and it sparkles in even low light. An exceptional rare gem crystal, from a famous gem mining district. This is one of those few times I have held a specimen and not been sure what was in my hand, because it is so out of the norm.