Pezzottaite is a rare Cesium-rich member of the Beryl group. It is named after Dr. Federico Pezzotta and was approved by the IMA in September 2003. These specimens are from the type locality in Ambatovita, Madagascar. Pezzottaite crystals are a beautiful, vibrant, purplish-pink color. It is found in association with Microcline, Quartz, Albite, Tourmaline species (Schorl, Elbaite, Liddicoatite), Spodumene, Lithian Muscovite, Chiavennite, Danburite, Spessartine, Zircon, Pyrochlore, Cassiterite, Hambergite, Mn-hydroxides, and Chalcedony.
This is definitely one of the most beautiful and highly publicized new minerals in the last few years. This material is now virtually mined out and there may never be any more specimens from Madagascar in the coming years. The gem value of this material has gone through the roof over the last few years, and with the supply of good matrix Pezzottaite specimens dwindling, these are certain to go up in value. I know, considering the extreme rarity of these specimens, that they are very fairly priced, and are virtually irreplaceable at these prices.
Enjoy !!
