Rubellite on Pegmatite Matrix from Varuträsk, Sweden

This tourmaline specimen comes from the Varuträsk pegmatite near Skellefteå in Västerbotten, Sweden. A purplish-red to pinkish-red rubellite crystal is prominently exposed on a light-colored pegmatite matrix. Several smaller red tourmaline crystals and crystal fragments are distributed across other areas of the matrix.

The main crystal shows the characteristic prismatic habit of tourmaline and visible longitudinal striations. Its strong color contrasts clearly with the light-colored quartz and feldspar areas. With a length of 6.5 cm, the piece belongs to the small cabinet specimen size category.

Rubellite from the Varuträsk LCT Pegmatite

Varuträsk in northern Sweden is a classic European locality for rare pegmatite minerals. The highly evolved pegmatite is assigned to the LCT family, which is characterized by enrichment in lithium, cesium, and tantalum.

Pink to red tourmalines from Varuträsk are traditionally referred to as rubellite. In addition to tourmaline, the pegmatite is known for lithium-rich micas, spodumene, pollucite, beryl, and various feldspars.

The combination of colored tourmaline, light-colored pegmatite matrix, and documented provenance makes this piece a characteristic locality specimen from Västerbotten.