den07-27
Wodginite (Huge Crystal!)
Linopolis, Divino das Laranjeiras, Doce valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Cabinet, 9.4 x 3.6 x 2.6 cm
SOLD
Wodginite is one of the more bizarre and unusual tantalates, and is very rare in large crystals (to my knowledge, known from just a couple of finds in Brazil in high quality). At first glance, this one is so large, lustrous, and sharp, that it could easily be mistaken for a ferberite till you feel the high heft in your hand and wonder. This crystal is complete all around except for a small contact in the lower-left, and displays nicely 360 degrees around as well. It is, I think, one of the more significant Brazilian minerals in terms of species representation, and thus a bargain compared to what you get for the price in "common, pretty" tourmalines from Brazil. To me, rarities of this caliber, when also in good condition and relatively aesthetic, make for the most interesting acquisitions! Comes with custom base.