Elbaite

specimen number:
1605102

location:
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

description:
A loose gemmy blue crystal of elbaite. This is the variety some call indicolite.

The pegmatite fields of Gilgit-Baltistan in northern Pakistan, centered around areas like Skardu, Shigar, and the Hunza Valley, owe their existence to the monumental collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Geologically, intense regional metamorphism and granitic magmatism forced volatile- and rare-element-rich melts into surrounding host rocks, creating extensive networks of coarse-grained pegmatite dykes. Historically, while local mountain communities have engaged in small-scale mineral gathering for generations, modern commercial and artisanal extraction expanded heavily during the late 20th century, transforming the high-altitude terrain into a world-famous source for fine gem-quality aquamarine, tourmaline, topaz, and other rare mineral specimens.

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