Description: At first glance, the visual impact of this specimen is immediate and commanding. The eye is drawn instinctively to the central core, where an exceptionally saturated rubellite zone radiates a deep, vivid pink that borders on magenta. This intensity is not superficial, but structural, anchored within the crystal’s internal architecture and amplified by its thickness and clarity. Under direct light, the colour holds with remarkable stability, while backlighting reveals an even more dramatic transformation, igniting the core with a luminous, almost incandescent depth. What elevates this piece beyond a simple coloured slice is its distinctly organised zoning. At its centre lies a richly defined core, forming a softly angular, almost triangular structure that appears both natural and deliberate. Surrounding this is a secondary band of lighter pink, creating a gradual transition that softens the intensity without diminishing it. Finally, the outermost rim opens into a translucent to near colourless boundary, acting as a natural frame that enhances contrast and isolates the central saturation with striking precision. This concentric zoning is not only visually compelling, but also geologically expressive, revealing the dynamic conditions under which the crystal developed. Despite not fitting the strict classical definition of watermelon tourmaline, this specimen represents a far more refined and less commonly encountered variation. The absence of green, replaced instead by a pale outer zone, allows the rubellite core to dominate without visual competition. The result is a composition that feels cleaner, more focused and, in many ways, more sophisticated in its presentation. The scale of the piece is equally significant. At 7.48 grams, approximately 37.40 carats, and with dimensions of 31 × 29 × 5 mm, this is not a typical slice. It stands as the largest tourmaline slice ever held within this collection, a fact that reinforces both its rarity and its presence. The thickness further contributes to its visual strength, allowing the colour to develop with depth and substance rather than appearing diluted or superficial. Originating from Minas Gerais, Brazil, one of the most important and historically rich regions for lithium bearing pegmatites, this specimen belongs to a geological lineage renowned for producing some of the world’s finest tourmalines. The region’s complex pegmatitic systems have long been responsible for crystals exhibiting extraordinary zoning, clarity and colour diversity, and this piece stands as a compelling example of that legacy. Internally, the slice reveals a network of natural features including growth lines, internal tensions and delicate inclusions, all of which contribute to its authenticity and individuality. These are not imperfections, but rather signatures of formation, recording the crystallisation environment in a way that no treated or synthetic material ever could. Entirely natural, unpolished in structure and unenhanced, this specimen is a powerful expression of rubellite tourmaline in its most honest and visually striking form. It is a piece that does not rely on perfection in the conventional sense, but instead derives its value from scale, structure, colour intensity and geological narrative. Specifications: • Mineral: Elbaite Tourmaline • Variety: Rubellite • Form: Natural crystal slice • Weight: 7.48 g • Weight in carats: 37.40 ct • Dimensions: 31 × 29 × 5 mm • Colour: Deep magenta pink core with lighter pink zoning and colourless outer rim • Colour saturation: Very high in central zone • Transparency: Translucent to locally transparent • Lustre: Vitreous • Crystal structure: Zoned internal architecture • Origin: Minas Gerais, Brazil • Treatment: Polished • Condition: Natural, as cut slice from crystal Notable Points: • Exceptional rubellite core displaying intense magenta saturation with strong visual presence • Distinct and clearly defined concentric zoning, from deep pink centre to colourless outer rim • Central structure forming a softly angular, almost triangular internal geometry • Secondary pink zone creating a natural gradient and enhancing depth perception • Outer translucent boundary acting as a visual frame that amplifies colour contrast • Outstanding scale for a tourmaline slice, significantly above standard market size • Largest tourmaline slice ever held within this collection, reinforcing rarity and uniqueness • Thickness of 5 mm allowing for superior colour depth and light interaction • Strong optical response under both direct and transmitted light conditions • Internal features including growth lines and inclusions adding geological authenticity • Clean overall presentation without structural disruption to the main visual zones • Highly balanced composition between colour intensity and spatial distribution • Representative of Minas Gerais pegmatitic formation environments • Natural, untreated material preserving original crystallisation characteristics • Strong display value with immediate visual impact and recognisable identity Collector’s Interest: Tourmaline slices occupy a unique position within mineral collecting, offering a direct cross section through the internal life of a crystal. Unlike faceted stones or intact crystals, slices reveal the hidden architecture of growth, zoning and chemical variation, transforming the specimen into both an aesthetic object and a geological document. Within this category, rubellite specimens of this scale and clarity are particularly sought after. The intensity of the central colour, combined with the clarity of zoning and the overall size of the slice, places this piece in a distinctly higher tier. It is not merely decorative, but demonstrative, offering insight into the processes that govern pegmatitic crystallisation. Minas Gerais has long been one of the world’s most prolific and respected sources of tourmaline, with a history that spans both gem quality production and collector grade material. Pieces from this region continue to define standards in colour, structure and diversity, and specimens that successfully combine these elements in a single composition are increasingly difficult to obtain. This particular example distinguishes itself through the convergence of multiple high level attributes: scale, colour saturation, zoning clarity and visual balance. The fact that it represents the largest slice within a curated collection further elevates its standing, marking it as a benchmark piece rather than a typical acquisition. For advanced collectors, institutions or individuals seeking material that bridges the gap between gemological beauty and mineralogical significance, this specimen offers a compelling opportunity. It is a piece that invites both admiration and study, capable of holding attention across different contexts, from display to detailed examination. Lapidary Potential: While the vivid colour and transparency of this rubellite slice might suggest potential for lapidary use, any form of cutting or alteration would irreversibly compromise its most valuable attributes, namely its zoning, scale and internal structure. The true value of this specimen lies in its preservation as a natural slice, where its internal architecture remains fully visible and intact. Any attempt to repurpose the material would result in the loss of its geological narrative and its identity as a collector piece. As such, it is best appreciated in its current state, as a complete and unaltered expression of natural tourmaline formation. ——————— 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 photos were taken under controlled light conditions, carefully selected to reproduce the most accurate natural color of each specimen. No filters, color enhancement, or artificial saturation were applied. The lighting setup is used exclusively to represent the piece as it appears under neutral daylight, ensuring that buyers can appreciate its true tones and luster without distortion. Identification and ethics: All specimens offered are guaranteed natural and as described. Their origin and mineral identification are provided with the most accurate and reliable information available. Every effort is made to ensure that each piece is presented with full transparency, avoiding any misleading details regarding its nature, treatment, or provenance. 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 a priority. 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