SCH-289
Axinite-(Mg)
Merelani Hills, Lelatema Mtns., Simanjiro Dist., Manyara Region, Tanzania
Thumbnail, 2.8 x 2.1 x 0.3 cm
Ex. Dr. Alex Schauss
$2,250.00 Payment Plan Available
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A stunning gem crystal of a highly unusual species, rarely seen in this quality - and then, only from this location more famous for Tanzanite than for lavender/blue gem axinite! Why should these gem crystals form here with the same colors as tanzanite?! This 2.8 x 2.1 x 0.3 cm transparent colorless glassy blade with exceptional sharp edges tinted by a light-purple blade on the backside was purchased in 2016. Photo by Jeff Scovil. Photos of this specimen can be found in Bruce Cairncross’ important book, Minerals & Gemstones of East Africa (2019), page 24 and is described by the author as, “a gem-quality axinite-(Mg) crystal.” Also, featured in the book, Refined Elegance (Mineralogical Record, Nov. 2022) on page 75.