This large, 152-gram tourmaline is big and imposing in form. It has a lot of subtle color gradations when backlit, but we need to say that in just frontal lighting, it has a dull luster and matte finish that prevent such good colors coming out without the backlighting. The terminations are both complete and the piece is a floater, with no repairs despite its size. The red termination is particularly robust. From the collection of Hubert De Monmonier (1919-2007), donated by bequest to the University of Arizona Museum to add to their displays; and to provide specimens for the recent sale to establish an endowment fund for museum operations in perpetuity. Joe Budd photos