Smoky Quartz w/ Schorl/Foitite (Bob Reynolds Coll.)

Item Description

A 4.8 cm schorl/foitite crystal is dramatically set amidst five intergrown smoky quartz crystals on this sculptural and impressive large combination specimen the famous Erongo Mountains. The lustrous parallel-growth trigonal prism is probably composed of typical small rod-like crystals of foitite, a rare member of the Tourmaline Group (scientists have been working to make our lives more complicated by finding out that all black tourmalines are not one species, but represent at least several!). Correct identification is only possible by suitable analytical methods, but the guidance from the literature is that the species are mixed in this style, and as described above. Note the different photos with backlighting and without. The striking sharply terminated translucent smokies have satin lustre faces. Backlighting reveals a nice SURPRISE, as the smokies are included with schorl/foitite sections. Complete all-around and in great shape. There are two clean repairs on the piece, which is certainly acceptable in the context of pegmatite species. Ex Bob Reynolds Collection. Bob is a well-known fossil and mineral expert and Curator of the San Bernardino County Museum. An outstanding large 360-degree schorl/foitite and smoky quartz combination from the Erongos.