Detailed information
Species
Elbaite
Dimensions
48 x 77 x 34
mm
Weight
222 g
Locality
Usakos Karibib District, Erongo Region Namibia
Condition
No recorded repairs
Probably dating to the small, one-off find in 2001 at this small pegmatite deposit, this off matrix, narrow, ribbed cluster of parallel Elbaite tourmaline crystals from Usakos benefits greatly from directional lighting. Only then does the full wonder of its rich dark green and dark electric-blue colour really present itself. At 7.7 cm tall this individual Elbaite tourmaline crystal is a notable size for this pegmatite-rich area in the Karibib District, Erongo Region, Namibia which is renowned for superb Beryl var. Aquamarine and Schorl tourmaline crystals (Erongo Mountains) but less so for fine Elbaite crystals. Although naturally very dark, the transition from very deep bottle-green down its lower three quarters and upwards into a deep electric-blue top is very nice. There is chipping to be seen around parts of its sides and in a few places across the edges of its otherwise glossy, pinacoid termination, but for a Namibian Elbaite this is really rather good. It does stand upright for display, but would benefit with some additional support. Ex Kessler Collection.
