Hambergite

The Himalaya Mine in San Diego County, California, is best known for its world-class tourmaline specimens, but it has also produced rarer species like hambergite. First discovered in 1898, the mine was one of the largest producers of gem and specimen-grade tourmaline in North America throughout much of the 20th century. Among its rarities, the Himalaya Mine has yielded some of the finest hambergite crystals from any U.S. locality, notable for their distinct habit and style.

This specimen features a terminated single crystal of hambergite, a relatively uncommon beryllium borate species. The crystal exhibits a soft ivory colour and is sharply defined, with striated, thin, prismatic faces. This thumbnail-sized specimen is an exceptional example of this rare material, making it a coveted addition for collectors of thumbnails, rarities, or California minerals. No Himalaya Mine collection is truly complete without one of these elusive treasures.