Elbaite
-
Na(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4
Description
Two perfectly formed transparent crystals with a beautiful gradation of colors, rising vertically from the base of a group of white quartz crystals, which earned this iconic sample the name "Excalibur" in reference to the legendary sword that could split rocks. A small crystal of pink tourmaline is stuck near the base of these two crystals.
Mina Morro Redondo, Araçuaí, Minas Gerais
Collection of origin
David Wilber (USA), Keith Proctor (USA)
Probable extraction year
1973
For the type locality, the island of Elba in Italy.
Class
8 - Silicates / Cyclosilicates
Dimensions (length x with x height in cm)
18x12.5x14
Hardness (Mohs)
7.5
Density (G/cm3)
3.1
Publication
"The Wonderful World of Precious Stones, 1979", "Lapidary Journal, July 1983", "Gems and Gemology, Spring 1985", "Larousse des Pierres Précieuses", "Minéraux Passion", "Rock & Gem, J
