DESCRIPTION: This exceptional watermelon tourmaline crystal presents one of the most intense and refined pink colour expressions observed in natural tourmaline. Its chromatic presence is immediate and unmistakable, defined by a vivid, saturated pink that approaches red without ever crossing into it. The colour is powerful yet controlled, dense rather than flashy, conveying depth, stability and mineral maturity. The crystal is fully developed and naturally terminated, preserving its complete prismatic morphology. Along its length, the body reveals a network of natural growth features, with inclusions running both vertically from base to termination and horizontally across the crystal. These internal characteristics are coherent and well distributed, recording uninterrupted growth rather than structural disturbance, and reinforcing the specimen’s untreated, natural origin. When the crystal is oriented with the termination facing the viewer, a genuine watermelon structure becomes clearly visible. A pale pink internal core is concentrically enclosed by a darker, more saturated pink outer zone. This zoning is structural and chemical, not superficial. Under direct illumination, the internal core remains visually dense and stable, while the surrounding zone responds more actively to light, appearing lighter and more translucent. This contrast confirms authentic compositional zoning within the crystal. Rather than being a slice, this specimen preserves its three dimensional geometry while still allowing a readable cross sectional interpretation at the termination. It offers both longitudinal and radial insight into tourmaline growth, making it equally compelling as a visual specimen and as a mineralogical reference. SPECIFICATIONS: • Weight: 1.05 g • Weight in carats: 5.25 ct • Dimensions: 15 × 6 × 6 mm • Origin: Araçuaí, Minas Gerais, Brazil • Mineral species: Tourmaline • Variety: Elbaite • Crystal habit: Complete prismatic crystal with natural termination • Colour: Intense saturated pink with concentric watermelon zoning • Internal structure: Pale pink core surrounded by darker pink outer zone • Transparency: Translucent to locally transparent • Lustre: Vitreous • Condition: Natural crystal as formed • Treatment: None NOTABLE POINTS: • Fully complete naturally terminated crystal • Exceptionally intense pink colour stopping just short of red • Genuine watermelon zoning visible at the termination • Pale pink internal core with clear concentric geometry • Darker saturated pink outer zone enclosing the core • Distinct optical response between core and outer zone under light • Natural vertical and horizontal growth inclusions throughout • Strong prismatic morphology preserved along the entire crystal • Untreated and unmodified state • Clear mineralogical readability from multiple orientations • Rare combination of saturation, zoning and completeness • Suitable as both collector and reference specimen COLLECTOR INTEREST: For collectors, this crystal represents a rare convergence of colour intensity, structural completeness and internal zoning clarity. Fully terminated watermelon tourmaline crystals displaying this level of pink saturation are uncommon, and examples that preserve both longitudinal integrity and readable radial zoning are rarer still. Its value lies not only in colour, but in the way that colour is organised within the crystal. The contrast between core and outer zone, combined with its intact termination, elevates this specimen beyond decorative material and firmly into serious collector territory. LAPIDARY POTENTIAL: While the colour and internal zoning could theoretically support selective cutting, any intervention would irreversibly compromise the defining characteristics of this specimen. Its highest and most honest expression lies in its preserved natural form, where both prismatic growth and watermelon zoning remain fully legible 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