DESCRIPTION: There are pairings in the mineral world that feel almost accidental, and then there are pairings that seem orchestrated by the Earth itself. This duo of natural tourmaline slices from Minas Gerais, Brazil belongs firmly to the latter. At first glance they appear harmonious, but upon closer inspection it becomes clear that one of them carries a feature so rarely encountered that it instantly elevates the entire lot to a category of its own. The larger slice displays an extraordinary pale blue internal core surrounded by a vivid pink rim, a colour arrangement produced only under highly unusual geochemical conditions where trace element availability, temperature gradients, and crystallisation timing align perfectly for a few fleeting moments within the pegmatite. Blue cores in tourmaline are among the least frequently observed growth structures, often requiring an early stage of Fe rich or Fe to Mn transitional chemistry before the melt shifts dramatically to a Mn dominant environment that forms the pink outer zone. This rare sequence is responsible for the ethereal, almost watercolour like appearance of this specimen. Beside it, the smaller slice stands as a more classical yet beautifully executed form of the reverse arrangement, with a strong pink nucleus encircled by soft icy blue tones. Together they form a natural dialogue of inverted chromatic balance, as though each stone were a reflection of the other through a geological mirror. The meeting of these two crystals offers a compelling story of symmetry, contrast, and the unpredictable artistry of mineral growth. Under neutral daylight both specimens show exceptional luminosity, while in angled light the internal fibres and zoning lines reveal the slow and layered narrative of their formation. For collectors with an eye for composition and rarity, few watermelon tourmalines display such a striking opposition of internal structures within a single matched pairing. For lapidaries, the material holds promise for unique high end jewellery, especially where the rare blue core can be showcased to full effect. SPECIFICATIONS: • Total weight: 2.11 g • Total weight in carats: 10.55 ct • Dimensions large slice: 17 × 13 × 3 mm • Dimensions small slice: 13 × 9 × 4 mm • Locality: Minas Gerais Brazil • Mineral: natural tourmaline • Variety: bicolour and inverse watermelon tourmaline • Colour arrangement large slice: pale blue core with vivid pink rim • Colour arrangement small slice: vivid pink core with pale blue rim • Transparency: translucent • Treatment: none • Cut: polished natural slices • Rarity: blue core tourmaline is exceptionally scarce in nature NOTABLE POINTS: • Rare blue nucleus formation displaying unusual Fe to Mn chemical transition • Beautifully balanced pairing with inverted bicolour architecture • Strong aesthetic presence suitable for high end display or jewellery • Natural translucency enhancing internal zoning visibility • Exceptional origin from Minas Gerais known for world class tourmaline quality COLLECTOR’S INTEREST: Collectors are drawn to these specimens not only for their beautiful pairing but for the presence of the elusive blue nucleus in the larger slice, a feature prized worldwide for its rarity and geological significance. The inverted chromatic balance between both slices creates an aesthetic harmony rarely encountered in natural watermelon tourmaline, making the pair especially appealing for curated collections focused on colour zoning and pegmatitic evolution. LAPIDARY POTENTIAL: For lapidaries these slices offer remarkable opportunities. The larger specimen holds the potential for a unique high end pendant or artistic bezel setting where the rare blue core can be framed as the focal element. The smaller slice lends itself to refined minimalist jewellery or can accompany the larger piece in a conceptual matched design. Both slices retain excellent internal zoning for light play under polished surfaces. —————— Photography and transparency: All photos were taken under controlled light conditions, carefully selected to reproduce the most accurate natural colour of each specimen. No filters, colour enhancement, or artificial saturation were applied. The lighting setup uses a calibrated 5500K light source, which replicates neutral daylight and reveals the true tones and clarity of the mineral. Under weaker or more yellow indoor lighting, colours may appear slightly different, which is normal and expected. The purpose of this setup is to present each specimen exactly as it appears in balanced natural daylight, allowing buyers to appreciate its authentic colour and lustre 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. Shipping and handling: Orders are carefully prepared, with each stone individually protected and placed in a secure rigid box to ensure safe delivery. Shipments are made within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation, always with a tracking number provided to the buyer. Each order is handled with professional care from selection to dispatch, ensuring a smooth and trustworthy process. 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. In the event of any issue, such as loss, damage, or discrepancy, please contact us immediately through Catawiki’s messaging system. We will always find a fair and suitable solution, including refund, replacement, or other commercial arrangements whenever justified. Appreciation and commitment: We sincerely thank you for your trust and preference. Our goal is to continuously bring you some of the most beautiful, unique, and exceptional mineral specimens from around the world. Each piece is carefully selected for its quality and character, ensuring that every purchase meets the highest standards. Your satisfaction and confidence are our top priorities, and we will always strive to exceed your expectations with every order. With gratitude, GemPulse Minerals