Fluorapatite (rare color) (ex Franceso Bedogne Collection)

Item Description

A classic example of the distinctive and beautiful Fluorapatites from Medina. These specimens are instantly recognizable for their unique sherry color and smooth, GLASSY, gem quality crystals free of matrix. This group is a fine example of this hard to find material that came around 30 years ago. The largest composite group of crystals measures 3.1 cm. These crystals have an unusual soft yellow fluorescence with some stark green spots of what is presumably another species. The habit and almost "Faden"-esque growth makes this some of the most unusual Fluorapatite I have seen, while still being SUPERB quality in terms of razor sharp crystals, amazing internal GEMMINESS and brilliant luster. These are rare, and we've only seen a few from this locality over the years. Valued at $1500. From the worldwide collection of famed Italian mineral collector, field collector and author, Francesco Bedogne of Sondrio, Italy (Collection #1404). Bedogne wrote dozens of articles and several books about the mineralogy of Italian Alpine localities such as Val Bregaglia, Val Masino, Val Codera, Val Spluga, Valtellina and the famous Val Malenco. He was also the founder of the Valtellinese Mineralogical Institute.