Description: A luminous burst of bright lime green crowns this remarkable elbaite crystal, immediately capturing the eye with a vivid, almost electric intensity that seems to glow from within. This radiant cap acts as a natural focal point, drawing attention before the gaze slowly descends into the deeper, more mysterious body of the crystal. Beneath this striking upper section, the crystal reveals a sophisticated vertical chromatic structure. A subtle transition leads from the vibrant lime green into a darker green core, before gently returning to lighter tones in selected zones, creating a layered and fluid colour rhythm that reflects uninterrupted crystal growth. This zoning is not abrupt but continuous, giving the piece a sense of organic harmony and visual movement. The lower portion of the crystal is dominated by a deep green body that, in certain lighting conditions, approaches near black. However, when illuminated from behind, this darker mass awakens, transforming into a rich olive green with depth and internal life. This dual visual behaviour adds a captivating dynamic quality, allowing the crystal to shift character depending on how it is observed. Structurally, the crystal exhibits an exceptionally refined prismatic habit. Its elongated geometry is defined by sharply developed faces that run continuously from base to termination. Under directional light, these faces reflect with remarkable uniformity along the entire length of the crystal, revealing a highly symmetrical and multi faceted structure that speaks to stable and uninterrupted growth conditions. This optical coherence is a strong indicator of crystallographic precision and natural balance. Fine longitudinal striations are present along the prism faces, subtle yet continuous, reinforcing the crystal’s vertical development. Internally, delicate inclusions and natural growth features can be observed, aligned with the axis and fully consistent with pegmatitic formation. The termination is naturally formed and well integrated into the overall structure, completing the crystal with authenticity and preserving its full geological integrity. This specimen originates from the renowned pegmatite fields of Afghanistan, a region celebrated for producing some of the most visually striking and structurally elegant elbaite tourmalines. Crystals from this locality are particularly valued for their colour vitality, clarity and well defined morphology, all of which are beautifully expressed in this piece. This is a crystal defined by contrast, light and structure. The interplay between its radiant lime green crown and its deep, evolving body creates a presence that is both powerful and refined, offering a rare balance between visual intensity and natural elegance. Specifications: • Weight: 1.67 g • Weight in carats: 8.35 ct • Dimensions: 40 x 5 x 4.5 mm • Origin: Paprok, Nuristan, Afghanistan • Mineral: Tourmaline • Variety: Elbaite • Crystal habit: Elongated prismatic crystal • Termination: Natural termination • Colour: Bright lime green cap transitioning into deep green body • Colour zoning: Vertical zoning with multiple tonal transitions • Transparency: Translucent to locally transparent • Lustre: Vitreous • Treatment: None • Condition: Natural, unpolished, intact crystal Notable Points: • Bright lime green cap An intense and luminous upper zone that immediately defines the identity of the crystal • Complex vertical colour zoning Natural transitions from vivid lime green into darker green and returning lighter tones • Deep green body with dynamic light response Appears near black in ambient light but transforms into olive green under backlighting • Exceptional prismatic structure Highly defined and symmetrical crystal faces running continuously along the entire length • Strong light reflection along prism faces Uniform reflection indicates precise multi faceted crystallographic development • Elongated and elegant morphology A refined and balanced vertical form with strong visual presence • Natural termination preserved Upper section remains intact, confirming full crystal development • Fine longitudinal striations Subtle growth lines documenting stable crystallisation conditions • Internal natural features Inclusions and structures aligned with the crystal axis • Pegmatitic origin Formed in mineral rich environments known for producing high quality elbaite • Afghan provenance Highly regarded source for vivid colour and well formed tourmaline crystals • Excellent visual contrast Interaction between bright cap and darker body creates depth and intensity Collector’s Interest: Elbaite tourmalines displaying such a vivid lime green cap combined with a deep, responsive body are particularly sought after for their visual impact and rarity. The clarity of the zoning, together with the precision of the crystal structure, makes this specimen especially appealing to collectors who value both aesthetic beauty and mineralogical integrity. The contrast between luminosity and depth gives the piece a strong emotional presence, making it not only a geological specimen but also a visually expressive object that resonates beyond its material nature. Lapidary Potential: While the internal transparency and colour could suggest possibilities from a lapidary perspective, any intervention would compromise the defining features of this crystal, particularly the relationship between the luminous cap and the darker body. Its highest value lies in its preservation as a complete natural crystal, where structure, colour zoning and growth history remain fully intact and observable ————- Shipping and Handling: All orders are shipped by Portuguese National Post and UPS. • Dispatch time: within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation to Catawiki • Transit time service: between 2 to 5 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