Doubly Terminated Brazilianite with Albite – Golden Crystal Elegance | Córrego Frio, Brazil
A miniature natural sculpture with a distinctive silhouette: This elongated, doubly terminated brazilianite combines delicate lemon-yellow and warm golden hues with contrasting white albite. Its lateral attachment to the albite allows the slender crystal form to stand out beautifully, while a sail-like albite blade provides a striking pale accent.
The principal mineralogical attraction is the development of natural termination faces at both ends. Accompanying crystal sections in approximately parallel alignment add stepped outlines and complexity to the elongated form. Long faces, beveled terminations, and white albite create an appealing composition from several viewing angles.
Lustrous faces alternate with finely textured surfaces displaying locally stepped patterns. Transparent areas near the edges and terminations offer glimpses into the interior, while more translucent sections produce a gentle yellow glow. As the specimen turns in the video, bright reflections travel across its faces, emphasizing its three-dimensional architecture.
Brazilianite is a relatively rare sodium aluminium phosphate that crystallizes in the monoclinic system. Research on the region’s deposits describes its formation through hydrothermal alteration of the primary phosphate montebrasite. Albite, a sodium feldspar, is a characteristic associated mineral of these phosphate-rich pegmatites, making this combination both visually appealing and mineralogically informative.
The Córrego Frio Mine near Linópolis, Minas Gerais, is the type locality of brazilianite. Material from this deposit led to the species’ first scientific description in 1945. This classic provenance connects the specimen’s individual crystal form with a significant chapter in mineralogical history.
A distinctive miniature for collectors who appreciate doubly terminated crystals, intricate intergrowths, and the elegant contrast between golden brazilianite and white albite.
In modern crystal traditions, brazilianite is associated with self-confidence, creativity, and the determination to put personal ideas into practice.
Locality: Córrego Frio Mine, Linópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Minerals: Brazilianite and albite
Special feature: Doubly terminated brazilianite attached to albite
Dimensions: 3 × 2.1 × 1.9 cm
