Luminous brazilianite crystals and white albite create a particularly appealing composition on this 6.8 cm specimen. Lemon-yellow to yellow-green crystals stand out beautifully against pale, platy albite aggregates. Transparent sections, lustrous faces, and the three-dimensional arrangement give the piece a lively and distinctive presence.
Much of its appeal lies in the variety of crystal forms. Prominent, shorter prismatic brazilianites with clearly developed terminations accompany elongated, partly flattened-looking crystals. White albite forms stepped groups between them, framing individual yellow sections and creating an intricate crystal landscape with inviting glimpses into its recesses.
As the specimen turns, differently oriented faces catch the light in succession. The video highlights its sculptural form and the contrast between transparent and more translucent areas. Finely textured surfaces complement smoother, strongly reflective faces, rewarding close inspection from several angles.
Mineralogically, the specimen brings together two characteristic minerals of phosphate-rich pegmatites: brazilianite, a relatively rare monoclinic sodium aluminium phosphate, and albite, a sodium feldspar. Research on the region’s brazilianite deposits describes the phosphate’s formation through early hydrothermal alteration of montebrasite, adding a fascinating geological dimension to this association.
The Córrego Frio Mine near Linópolis, Minas Gerais, is the type locality of brazilianite. Material from this deposit provided the basis for its first scientific description in 1945. This historic provenance adds further interest to an already attractive mineral combination.
An expressive collector’s specimen combining vibrant color, varied crystal forms, and an elegant contrast between luminous yellow-green and white.
In modern crystal traditions, brazilianite is associated with self-confidence, creativity, and the determination to bring personal ideas to life.
Locality: Córrego Frio Mine, Linópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Minerals: Brazilianite and albite
Dimensions: 6.8 × 4 × 3.9 cm
