Description

This gorgeous aquamarine specimen is special beyond its aesthetics. I acquired it in May, 1990, which makes it an early one of these (and I’ve loved having it in my cabinet since then). In addition, it is a bit different from the specimens of muscovite which include 3-5 aquas – this is host to a large number of crystals (50-100), not just a few isolated ones – it is truly a cluster of aquamarine crystals with muscovite perched in and around the aquas. There are seven doubly-terminated crystals around the periphery, including two featuring prominently at the top, as displayed. Many of the crystals have excellent transparency, so the light plays nicely, giving internal sparkle and even a bit of subtle prism-like rainbow colour when you look closely. The upper crystal that appears darker blue is the same beautiful pale blue as the large one at lower left – it appears a bit darker because it is clear, and you’re looking right through it to the muscovite behind. The piece is in excellent condition. There is one transparent chip in the termination of the left-of centre forward-facing doubly-terminated crystal – it does not pick up the light in the display case and so you really have to look for it. Otherwise no visible damage except a bit around the periphery where it had been attached in the pocket. The crystals of muscovite on the aquamarine crystals provide a super offset. This is a great cabinet specimen of aquamarine!