Rubellite Tourmaline (ex Bill Larson Collection) (self-collected)

Item Description

A fantastic reddish-pink colored "oval" cabochon cut Rubellite Tourmaline from the world-famous Tourmaline Queen Mine in Pala, San Diego County, California. This locality produced what are arguably the most recognized and distinctive Tourmaline crystals ever found - the highly coveted "blue cap" crystals that were discovered in 1972 by Bill Larson and Ed Swoboda. This stone (or more specifically the rough from which it was cut and polished) was self-collected by Bill Larson in the 1970s, and remained in his personal collection until very recently. It weighs in at an impressive 35.36 carats. The color can shift in this stone depending upon the light in which it's viewed, and you can see more stronger red tones or stronger pink tones as a result. If you collect gemstones, Tourmalines, pieces from The Queen Mine or San Diego County in general, do NOT miss out on this large and impressive gem from what is easily one of the top localities in the United States in terms of iconic mineral specimens. If you are lucky enough to have a nice Rubellite from the Queen Mine, this stone would make a fantastic match to create a special "rough and cut" set. Valued at $5,304.00 retail.