Description: There are specimens that are appreciated, and there are specimens that impose themselves. This crystal belongs unequivocally to the latter. A complete and elongated watermelon tourmaline crystal from the Laghman Mine, presenting an exceptional vertical development that immediately defines its presence. The prismatic structure is strong, continuous and remarkably well preserved, with sharply expressed longitudinal striations that document uninterrupted growth within a stable pegmatitic environment. The internal colour architecture is both vivid and structurally coherent. A well saturated pink core runs through the entire length of the crystal, clearly visible and consistently centred, while the surrounding green envelope displays a bright, fresh tonality typical of high quality Afghan elbaite. The transition between colours is natural and legible, forming a clear and authentic watermelon structure that is visible not only at the termination but throughout the full body of the crystal. Under direct light, the specimen reveals its full expressive capacity. Light penetrates the structure and activates the internal zoning, creating a luminous response that travels along the crystal’s length. The green zones emit a vibrant radiance, while the pink core intensifies from within, producing a dynamic interplay of colour that gives the piece a striking visual depth and energy. Transparency varies from translucent to locally transparent, allowing observation of internal growth features without compromising colour saturation. Natural internal veils and structural features are present and fully consistent with pegmatitic formation, reinforcing the authenticity and geological integrity of the specimen. The termination, although naturally irregular, preserves the clarity of the internal zoning and offers a direct view into the crystal’s internal structure. The overall condition remains highly attractive, with the crystal maintaining its full prismatic identity and visual balance. Originating from the Laghman Mine in Afghanistan, a locality known for producing vividly coloured and structurally clean elbaite, this specimen represents a refined expression of watermelon tourmaline in its natural crystalline form. It is a piece that combines presence, colour definition and structural integrity in a single, highly coherent specimen. Specifications: • Weight: 3.59 g • Weight in carats: 17.95 ct • Dimensions: 35 x 7 x 7 mm • Origin: Laghman Mine, Laghman Province, Afghanistan • Mineral species: Tourmaline • Variety: Elbaite • Crystal habit: Elongated prismatic crystal • Termination: Natural, irregular termination • Colour: Green outer zone with pink internal core • Colour zoning: Continuous longitudinal watermelon structure • Transparency: Translucent to locally transparent • Lustre: Vitreous to satin • Condition: Natural, untreated Notable Points: • Exceptional elongation A notably elongated crystal measuring 35 mm, giving it a strong vertical presence and refined aesthetic balance. • Complete prismatic structure The crystal preserves its full natural habit, with well defined faces and continuous geometry from base to termination. • Clear watermelon zoning A distinctly visible pink core surrounded by a vibrant green exterior, extending consistently through the entire length of the specimen. • Strong colour saturation Both the green and pink zones display vivid and lively tones, characteristic of high quality Afghan elbaite. • Internal light response Under direct illumination, the crystal exhibits a dynamic internal glow, enhancing depth and colour interaction. • Well developed striations Parallel growth striations are clearly visible along the prism, evidencing stable and uninterrupted crystallisation. • Structural coherence The colour zoning is aligned with the crystal growth axis, maintaining continuity and internal consistency. • Natural internal features Subtle inclusions and veils consistent with pegmatitic origin contribute to authenticity without diminishing visual appeal. • Balanced transparency Light penetration allows internal observation while preserving saturation and chromatic intensity. • Defined core visibility The pink central zone remains clearly observable from multiple angles, reinforcing the identity of the specimen. • Laghman provenance Material from this locality is recognised for producing well structured and vividly coloured tourmalines. • Aesthetic presence A specimen that commands attention through proportion, colour and structural clarity. Collector’s Interest: This specimen represents a complete and highly expressive example of watermelon tourmaline in crystal form. The combination of elongation, internal colour definition and structural integrity makes it particularly appealing for collectors seeking pieces that clearly demonstrate natural growth and zoning. The visual impact of the crystal is immediate, but its interest deepens upon closer observation, where the internal architecture and colour distribution reveal the full story of its formation. It is a piece that holds both display strength and mineralogical relevance. Lapidary Potential: With a consistent diameter of approximately 7 mm, the crystal offers excellent potential for precision slicing, capable of yielding multiple sections with strong colour contrast and balanced distribution. The internal zoning is already clearly visible, allowing accurate planning of any future cutting approach. However, the crystal in its current state preserves its full natural identity, where form, structure and colour coexist in a single uninterrupted piece. ————- 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