1.6" Sugilite in Matrix - South Africa

This is a gorgeous 1.6" wide specimen containing purple sugilite in massive form on matrix, collected from the famous N'Chwaning Mine complex in the Northern Cape province of South Africa.

Sugilite is a relatively rare mineral whose color ranges from deep pink to violet. Crystals commonly occur in a massive crystal habit, though it may also be found in other forms. While the type locality is Japan, the majority of the material on the market is found in South Africa, and the South African sugilite is usually the highest quality. Of that material, most sugilite specimens are smuggled out of the manganese mines by the miners themselves. Sugilite is also found in Italy, Canada, and of course Japan, though in small quantities and relatively unattractive colors.
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DETAILS
SPECIES
Sugilite
LOCATION
N'Chwaning Mine III, Kuruman, Kalahari Manganese Field, Northern Cape, South Africa
SIZE
1.6 x .45"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#284089