Tourmaline-2015-09
Himalaya Mine Tourmaline
Tourmaline var. elbaite from the Himalaya Mine, Mesa Grande District, San Diego County, CA. Rough (Inv. #22831) measures 7.5 x 1 cm and the 11.32-carat cut stone (Inv. #22814) measures 1.6 x 9.2 cm. (Photo: Mia Dixon)
Amongst the more desirable rough and cut gem minerals is the iconic Himalaya Mine bi-color tourmaline. San Diego County has been referred to as a "gem basket." Seeing is believing. The classic tourmaline crystal form and the striking color banding have made these a must-buy for the dedicated collector.
This month we offer you both: a crystal that has in it a beautiful center section showing the gem potential, and alongside it the finished gem. Production at this location has been sparse and availability is now difficult to obtain.