A superlative, totally gem Rubellite Tourmaline crystal from the pegmatites of western Nigeria. Unfortunately, most of the crystals from these famous finds went to the gem trade for cutting (for obvious reasons!). This splendid, robust totally gem Elbaite measures 2.4 cm in length and 1.8 cm at its widest. It is very well formed, lightly striated and imbued with a splendid saturated and uniform rose-cranberry color. It has some barely discernible edge rubbing, otherwise exceptional. Great Rubellites like this from these famous Nigerian finds are highly sought after and rare on the market. It is a significant thumbnail gem Tourmaline specimen with a mass of 12.95 grams. It is a full size thumbnail that fills the space, not a slender crystal as usual.