SOLD
TUC09-X3
Tanzanite
Merelani Mines, Arusha, Tanzania
Small Cabinet, 9.0 x 6.0 x 4.0 cm
SOLD
Rarely do you find pristine gem tanzanite crystals, in this size, with such sharpness to them. High luster is common enough, but the glassy finish, the top reflective luster as you see here (note there are no areas where it does not reflect, showing a more matte surface), is uncommon. More rare is to find such crystals with a high gem value content AND naturally intense colors on all 3 axes, without being heat treated first. More rare yet - well, try finding TWO such fine crystals, each pristine, similar in size, and both with the top color intensity on all 3 axes - and stick them together. This shockingly 3-dimensional cluster is just such a beast: a cluster of two of the finest intense-colored natural tanzanite crystals I have seen. They are joined in such a manner as to maximize the 3-dimensional geometry of the specimen, spacing the crystal masses from each other to give the piece a maximal presence. Note in the side-by-side photo how the relational geometry between the two crystals is so dramatic in each axis, that the photos, shown alone, actually LOOK LIKE THEY ARE OF DIFFERENT SPECIMENS. This is an Iconic mineral specimen in every sense, memorable among a huge crowd of good things on the market, and should becaome one of the key pieces in a collection. PHOTOS BY JOSEPH BUDD. Comes with custom base for display. Illustrated, Rocks & Minerals article on dichroic minerals