TOURMALINE. Momeik Township, Kyaukme District, Shan State, Myanmar (Burma). . ...

Description

TOURMALINE
Momeik Township, Kyaukme District, Shan State, Myanmar (Burma)

As if Momeik doesn't provide enough weirdness for mineral collectors everywhere, the locality has upped the ante by producing ... this. It is a very strange variation on the classic Momeik "shaving brush" habit. This unusual specimen shows two different aspects: one part of the specimen exhibits a simple, trigonal, prism of "normal" form and glassy luster, particularly at the pyramidal termination, while another is partially engulfed by the "shaving brush" form which is made up of dozens of radiating 'sub-crystals,' each with its own set of terminal faces, giving this area a scintillating, frosted appearance. Color is more 'normal' for Momeik with dark reddish pink basal areas that fade to medium pink with black core towards the termination. Certain faces are gemmy enough to look into the crystal. Minor repair to the base; otherwise, it is in pristine condition.
Overall measurements: 0.8 x 1.2 x 0.6 inches (2.1 x 3.1 x 1.6 cm)

Illustrated: Fong/Walker, M., Neumeier, G., & Walker, J. (Eds.). (2015). The World of Tourmaline: The Gerhard Wagner Collection. Dallas, Texas: Ivy Press. Page 200.

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