**Complimentary Specimens** As a gesture of appreciation, winning lots with a final hammer price above €50 will include one small additional mineral offered entirely free of charge. —————— DESCRIPTION: Not all crystals grow in silence. Some erupt in disciplined alignment, converging like iron filings drawn to an invisible field. This black kyanite is one such formation, a natural convergence of blades rising from a shared axis, expanding outward in a dramatic triangular sweep that earned it the evocative name “Witch’s Broom”. This specimen originates from Morro Redondo, Minas Gerais, Brazil, one of the most recognised sources worldwide for black kyanite displaying this distinctive radial lamellar habit. Unlike prismatic blue kyanite crystals that develop as individual blades, this variety forms through the parallel growth of countless flattened triclinic crystals, tightly interlocked and radiating from a central growth zone. The result is a dynamic, fan shaped aggregate composed of dozens of fine, elongated crystal blades. The structure is architecturally striking. Each lamella retains its individual identity, with clearly visible longitudinal striations running along the length of the blades. These striations are not surface damage but intrinsic growth features, recording directional metamorphic pressure during formation. The aggregate expands in a triangular geometry, tapering toward the base while fanning outward toward the upper termination, producing the characteristic broom like silhouette. The colour is a deep graphite black to metallic charcoal, with subtle steel grey reflections along the blade edges under angled light. Rather than absorbing light completely, the crystal surfaces interact with it through a slightly silky to vitreous lustre, creating delicate linear highlights that travel along the striations. This optical behaviour enhances the perception of texture and dimensionality. Surface preservation is excellent. The lamellar blades remain sharply defined, with no polishing or artificial enhancement. Minor natural matrix residues and microscopic mineral inclusions are present between blades, consistent with metamorphic formation and entirely natural. The specimen is structurally coherent, with the aggregate firmly bonded at its base and along its growth axis. Black kyanite differs from blue and green varieties not only in colour but in structural presentation. While all kyanite belongs to the triclinic crystal system and exhibits strong directional cleavage, the black variety often forms these dramatic radial clusters due to variations in growth environment and mineral chemistry during regional metamorphism. This is not a decorative fragment. It is a textbook example of radial lamellar kyanite growth, expressive, sculptural and unmistakably natural. SPECIFICATIONS: • Weight: 19.32 g • Weight in carats: 96.60 ct • Dimensions: 58 x 34 x 12 mm • Origin: Morro Redondo, Minas Gerais, Brazil • Mineral species: Kyanite • Crystal system: Triclinic • Crystal habit: Radial lamellar aggregate, fan shaped triangular formation • Colour: Deep black to graphite grey • Colour distribution: Uniform, with metallic grey edge reflections • Transparency: Opaque • Lustre: Vitreous to slightly silky along blade surfaces • Surface features: Natural longitudinal striations on individual lamellae • Condition and treatment: Natural, unpolished, untreated NOTABLE POINTS: • Classic “Witch’s Broom” black kyanite formation • Distinct triangular fan shaped aggregate • Composed of numerous intergrown lamellar crystal blades • Strong radial growth from central axis • Clear longitudinal striations on individual blades • Excellent structural coherence for aggregate type • Metallic grey reflections under directional light • Fully natural surfaces with no mechanical alteration • Textbook example of lamellar kyanite morphology • Recognised Brazilian locality known for this habit • Dramatic sculptural presence despite moderate size • Highly display oriented specimen COLLECTOR’S INTEREST: For collectors, black kyanite in radial broom formation holds a special position due to its instantly recognisable morphology. Unlike isolated prismatic crystals, these aggregates communicate formation dynamics at a glance. The geometry is expressive and energetic, combining mineralogical clarity with sculptural impact. Specimens from Morro Redondo are particularly sought after because the locality consistently produces well defined, stable aggregates with strong radial structure. This piece offers both aesthetic presence and geological readability, making it suitable for collections focused on crystal habit, metamorphic minerals or structurally expressive specimens. LAPIDARY POTENTIAL: Kyanite’s pronounced directional cleavage and anisotropic hardness make it challenging for lapidary use, particularly in aggregate form. In this specimen, the intergrown lamellae define its identity and visual power. Any attempt at cutting would destroy the radial architecture and compromise structural integrity. Its highest and most authentic value lies in preservation as a natural mineral specimen, where its morphology, growth mechanics and geological narrative remain fully visible and intact. _____________ Shipping and Handling: All orders are shipped by Portuguese National Post. • Dispatch time: within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation to Catawiki • Transit time with CTT service: between 5 to 7 business days within europe and worldwide, depending on destination national post. • A tracking number is always provided Photography and transparency: All photographs are taken under controlled lighting conditions using a macro lens, carefully selected to present each specimen as accurately as possible. No filters, colour enhancement, or artificial saturation are applied. The lighting setup uses a calibrated 5500K light source, replicating neutral daylight to reveal natural tones, surface features, and internal characteristics. Under warmer or weaker indoor lighting, colours may appear slightly different, which is normal. The purpose of this photographic process is documentation and representation, not visual enhancement. Images are intended to reflect the specimen faithfully as it appears under balanced natural light conditions. Identification and ethics: All specimens offered are natural and described to the best of our knowledge, based on direct sourcing, professional experience, and information provided by trusted suppliers working at the origin. Every effort is made to ensure transparency and accuracy regarding identification, locality, and general characteristics, avoiding misleading statements about treatment, provenance, or nature. Customs and import taxes: Any customs duties, import fees, or local taxes applied by the destination country are entirely the responsibility of the winning bidder. These charges are not included in the auction price or shipping cost and are determined by the buyer’s local authorities. Guarantee and resolution: Customer satisfaction is important. In the unlikely event of an issue such as loss, damage, or discrepancy, please contact us promptly through Catawiki’s messaging system. Each case is handled individually and fairly, with appropriate solutions offered when justified. Appreciation and commitment: We sincerely thank you for your trust. Our work focuses on careful selection, accurate representation, and respectful presentation of mineral specimens with character and interest. Each piece is chosen for its individual qualities rather than speculative or financial considerations. We aim to provide a transparent, reliable, and consistent experience for collectors at all levels. With gratitude, GemPulse Minerals