Description: A sharply defined elbaite tourmaline crystal distinguished by a dual phase colour structure, where a transparent to near colourless lower body transitions into a rich honey yellow upper section concentrated at the termination. The crystal develops as a slender elongated prism with a notably clean and light transmitting body. The lower portion is highly transparent, allowing direct observation of internal growth lines and subtle linear features aligned with the crystallographic axis. This clarity gives the specimen an almost glass like appearance, emphasising purity and structural openness. At approximately the upper half, a clear and abrupt chromatic transition occurs. The colourless body gives way to a saturated yellow zone with a warm honey tone that intensifies towards the termination. This is not a diffuse staining effect but a structurally integrated colour phase, reflecting a distinct shift in chemical conditions during crystal growth. The yellow coloration is associated with changes in trace element incorporation, commonly linked to iron in specific oxidation states within the pegmatitic fluid. The absence of colour in the lower section suggests a phase of growth under relatively low chromophore concentration, followed by a later stage where the chemistry of the environment evolved, allowing colour inducing elements to be incorporated into the crystal lattice. The boundary between these two zones remains clean and readable, forming a natural division that records this geochemical transition. Light interaction further enhances this effect, with the transparent body acting as a conduit while the yellow termination captures and concentrates the visual intensity. The termination itself is natural and slightly irregular, preserving its original growth surface. Minor surface textures and micro features are consistent with an untreated crystal and reinforce the authenticity of the specimen. Longitudinal striations are present along the prism faces, subtle but continuous, confirming stable crystallisation throughout both growth phases. Internally, fine inclusions and delicate structural features are visible under light, fully consistent with pegmatitic formation. This specimen presents a clear and elegant example of phase dependent colour zoning, where transparency and saturation coexist within a compact and well preserved crystal, offering both aesthetic clarity and geological significance. Specifications: • Weight: 0.13 g • Weight in carats: 0.65 ct • Dimensions: 15 x 2 x 2 mm • Mineral species: Tourmaline • Variety: Elbaite • Crystal habit: Elongated prismatic crystal • Termination: Natural irregular • Colour: Colourless to transparent body with honey yellow termination • Colour zoning: Upper half concentrated zoning • Transparency: Transparent to translucent • Lustre: Vitreous • Treatment: None • Condition: Natural intact crystal Notable Points: • Dual phase colour structure A clearly divided crystal with a transparent lower body and a saturated yellow upper section • Honey yellow termination A warm and concentrated yellow tone developed at the final stage of growth • High transparency body The lower portion allows strong light transmission enhancing internal visibility • Sharp zoning boundary A clean transition between colourless and yellow zones reflecting distinct growth phases • Chemically driven colour evolution Variation in trace element incorporation during crystallisation responsible for the colour shift • Natural termination preserved The top surface remains intact maintaining growth integrity • Slender elongated habit A fine and elegant prismatic structure with balanced proportions • Visible internal structure Subtle inclusions and linear features aligned with crystal growth • Continuous longitudinal striations Growth lines confirming stable crystallisation across both phases • Light interaction contrast Transparent body versus saturated termination creates strong visual dynamics • Compact yet expressive specimen Small in size but highly readable in terms of structure and formation • Clean aesthetic presentation Minimal visual disturbance allowing focus on zoning and clarity Collector’s Interest: This specimen stands out for the clarity of its growth history, expressed through the contrast between a transparent initial phase and a later chemically enriched termination. The sharp zoning boundary allows direct interpretation of environmental changes during formation, making it particularly appealing for collectors interested in mineralogical processes. Beyond its scientific readability, the visual balance between clarity and colour gives the piece a refined aesthetic presence. It is a specimen that rewards close observation, revealing both simplicity and complexity within a single crystal. Lapidary Potential: Any intervention would remove the defining zoning and compromise the natural relationship between transparency and colour. The specimen holds its highest value in its current form, where its full crystallisation history remains intact and fully visible. ————- 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. 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