igneous
Quartz–feldspar pegmatite with pink tourmaline or garnet
Granitic pegmatite; chiefly quartz (SiO₂), alkali feldspar, muscovite, with probable elbaite tourmaline or spessartine garnet
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse interlocking crystals, vitreous to pearly luster, pale gray-white quartz/feldspar and salmon-pink to red crystals; quartz hardness 7, feldspar 6–6.5, mica 2–3. Crystals appear mostly massive/irregular, with mica showing perfect basal cleavage; exact identification requires testing.
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Physical properties
Coarse interlocking crystals, vitreous to pearly luster, pale gray-white quartz/feldspar and salmon-pink to red crystals; quartz hardness 7, feldspar 6–6.5, mica 2–3. Crystals appear mostly massive/irregular, with mica showing perfect basal cleavage; exact identification requires testing.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the final, water-rich melt of a granitic magma, producing exceptionally large crystals in a late-stage pegmatite vein, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Collected as a cabinet specimen; pegmatites may supply feldspar, quartz, mica, lithium, tantalum, beryllium, and gem tourmaline. Attractive pink crystals can be cut or used decoratively, though this specimen is primarily for display.
Geological facts
The red-pink crystals may be garnet, tourmaline, or feldspar; color alone is insufficient for distinction. A streak, hardness, crystal habit, and specific-gravity test would improve identification.
Field identification & locations
Common in granitic pegmatite districts worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, the United States, and Norway. Look for very coarse crystals, glassy quartz, blocky feldspar, and flaky mica; avoid acid testing unless carbonate minerals are suspected.
