This specimen is widely regarded as the finest blue topaz ever recovered and stands as a benchmark example for the species. The crystal displays extraordinary optical clarity and exceptional transparency. Its faces are smooth, glassy, and sharply defined, and the classic V-face habit is perfectly centered and highly attractive. The color is an evenly saturated, celestial sky blue, lending the piece a luminous and refined presence.
The specimen originates from the Virgem da Lapa mining district, a classic Brazilian locality celebrated for producing large, sharply formed V-face topaz crystals with smooth faces and defined edges. Peak production occurred in the late 1970s, with only sporadic finds since, making fine examples from this locality particularly coveted. The crystal is further distinguished by its rare and complementary matrix, composed of white cleavelandite and brown feldspar. The cleavelandite extends like a wing from the lower left of the crystal, while the feldspar provides a central anchoring element, creating a balanced and dynamic composition. Topaz is highly prone to cleaving and is seldom found on matrix, and the combination of pristine condition, exceptional crystallography, color, and composition places this specimen among the absolute finest of its kind from this historic locality.