very rare clear Phantom Quartz sphere with pink and green phantom layers

A very rare clear phantom rock crystal sphere from Zambia, with pink and green phantom layers inside. An extraordinary multi-color growth stratigraphy in one piece.

Phantoms are formed by oscillating solution chemistry during crystallization: intermittent trace element layers color the growth material, which is then overgrown by later clear quartz growth. The pink layers indicate traces of manganese, while the green layers indicate chlorite or very fine actinolite inclusions.

Multi-colored phantoms in a single crystal are classified in the collector's trade as multi-color phantoms. They document complex deposit sequences with multiple solution changes.

Zambian deposits from the Karoo Basin yield such multiple phantom quartz in premium clarity. To cut the 13 cm sphere from such a rough block requires precise workshop craftsmanship.

A collector's item with gemologically exceptional multi-color stratigraphy.