Rock crystal sphere with included black tourmalines and muscovite crystals, tourmalinated quartz

A rock crystal sphere from Zambia with black schorl tourmaline inclusions and muscovite mica, classified as tourmalinated quartz. The spherical shape maximizes the optical effect of the dark rods against the transparent quartz matrix.

Tourmalinated quartz refers to rock crystal with included schorl needles, a complex boron silicate. The parallel growth constellation of quartz and schorl documents a boron-bearing pegmatitic deposit with synchronous mineralization of both phases.

Muscovite as an additional accessory mineral documents a three-mineral constellation. Such three-feature pieces with a spherical cut are rare in the collector's trade and are highly valued gemologically.

Zambian pegmatites supply this material in cutting quality. A museum-quality collector's item with documented three-mineral genesis and pronounced schorl pattern.