Brazil’s golden era of mineral production during the 1970s and 1980s yielded discoveries that defined modern standards of excellence, with legendary material emerging from celebrated localities such as Xanda, Jonas, Córrego do Frio, and Itaguaçu. Among these extraordinary recoveries, this aquamarine from the Americana Mine, recovered in 1972, stands alone. It is widely regarded as the finest aquamarine crystal ever discovered, unmatched in its synthesis of size, color, clarity, form, and luster. Its significance was immediately recognized by the mine’s owners, Hildebrando and Teófilo Otoni, and the specimen quickly became the focus of an international bidding competition. After residing for decades as the centerpiece of a prominent European collection, it was acquired in 2015 by Daniel Trinchillo, founder of Fine Minerals International, and retained as a defining work within his personal collection.
The crystal displays a remarkable green-blue coloration, an exceptional expression within aquamarine that results from iron rather than chromium and remains firmly within the beryl species. This saturated hue is paired with extraordinary optical clarity and a luminous translucence that allows light to penetrate deeply, giving the specimen an almost ethereal presence. Encapsulated albite crystals anchor the lower portion of the crystal, adding visual interest without compromising its flawless integrity. Sharply defined hexagonal faces, razor-edged terminations, and a brilliant, gemlike luster complete a combination of attributes rarely encountered in a single crystal. At 22 cm in height, this aquamarine stands not only as the pinnacle of Brazilian material, but as an enduring benchmark for the species as a whole.