Alabandite
at-auction$ 20
- Locality
- Merelani Hills, Arusha, Tanzania
- Minerals
- Alabandite
- Dimensions
- 6 x 4.5 x 2.5 cm
- Size class
- Small Cabinet
- SID
- M495
The Merelani Tanzanite mines have produced many 'best of species' over the years and in recent years, Alabandite has been added to that list. Alabandite, an uncommon manganese sulfide, was previously only found as small crystals to about 1cm or so. Then in 2009, finds in Peru produced what were then the world's best Alabandite, with crystals to about 2cm. These were quickly eclipsed in about 2013 by the finds at Merelani with relativey huge, distinct crystals, some with associated minerals like Tanzanite and Diopside. This is a large, sharp single octahedral crystal with large smooth faces on most sides. At 6cm, this is exceptionally large by worldwide standards and good sized even for Merelani. Valued at $500.