Xenotime-(Y) (rare matrix specimen) with Hematite, Rutile and Quartz (ex Rolando Gioia Collection)

Item Description

Some of the most iconic Rutile / Hematite specimens in the world are those from Novo Horizonte, but the locality has also produced some fine quality crystals of Xenotime-(Y). Typically the Xenotime crystals are found loose, off matrix, but THIS piece is a very rare matrix specimen of this rare material. This piece is a wonderful toenail specimen featuring a rarely seen 1.5 cm group of golden-brown, lustrous Xenotime-(Y) aesthetically flaring off silvery Hematites which have golden Rutile crystals epitaxially growing on them, plus a few very sharp, lustrous, GEMMY, prismatic Quartz crystals. It is incredibly rare to find Xenotime-(Y) crystals on matrix like this from this locality. From the collection of Rolando Gioia (a contributor to new definitive book on Brazilian minerals: "Minerais e Pedras Preciosas do Brasil").