Andalusite (crystallized) (ex Rolando Gioia Collection)

Item Description

Fine crystallized Andalusite is not seen from many localities around the world. It's mostly found in "lumps" or masses, but good crytsals are not common. The area around Jenipapo producuded a small amount of fine crystallized Andalusite around 10 years ago. This piece features sharp, well-formed, blocky orthorhombic crystals of pinkish Andalusite form this attractive specimen. The crystals look opaque on the surface, but when they're backlit, they actually show a lovely internal color. It should be noted that Andalusite is somewhat pleochroic, so when the crystals are rotated in the light, you can see a slight color change. A great opportunity for a collector to pick up a good quality Andalusite from this well known locality. You just don't see actual CRYSTALS of Andalusite like this from any locality. The piece is not 100% perfect, but it's darned impressive for what it is in my mind. From the collection of Rolando Gioia (a contributor to new definitive book on Brazilian minerals: "Minerais e Pedras Preciosas do Brasil").