Elbaite (Tourmaline)

This ex-matrix fine crystal of Elbaite Tourmaline is from the world-famous Himalaya mine at Mesa Grande in California, USA. A magnificent crystal measures 10.0 x 3.6 x 3.2 cm and is translucent bubble gum pink terminating with a 1 mm pale apple-green cap. The green cap can easily be missed because it is only apparent when viewed directly side-on, but from the top the flat pinacoid termination is more cranberry-red, perhaps with a hint of green. All prism faces are quite deeply, but finely, vertically straited giving the crystal both a silky lustre and texture. The pinacoid is mainly mirror-like with a brilliant glassy lustre which migrates into occasional matt areas around the periphery. Examined closely, the Tourmaline becomes quite gemmy closer to the termination. The prism is triclinic in section. Some creamy-white remnant part-blades of Cleavelandite, a variety of Albite Feldspar are attached to one face towards the base. A splendid and classic Elbaite Tourmaline from the Himalaya mine in San Diego County, California.