8.6 Grams Purple Apatite with Smoky Quartz -From Skardu Pakistan

This fine mineral specimen features a natural purple apatite crystal aesthetically grown in association with smoky quartz, a classic and well-documented paragenesis from the Skardu region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The specimen is completely untreated and earth-mined, preserving its original geological integrity.

The apatite crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system, displaying a purple to lavender hue with semi-transparent optical character. The contrasting ivory-cream to black-brown smoky quartz matrix enhances both visual appeal and mineralogical interest. With a total weight of 8.6 grams (43 carats) and compact dimensions of 25 × 20 × 20 mm, it falls into the over-20-carat class, desirable for cabinet and study collections.

From a geological perspective, this association reflects the pegmatitic and hydrothermal environments typical of the Skardu district, where phosphorus-rich fluids enable apatite formation alongside quartz. Such specimens are valued for illustrating crystal growth relationships, matrix interaction, and regional mineral chemistry.

Collector & Academic Value:

• Rarity: Classified as Rare for locality and color

• Condition: Fair (F), natural crystal surfaces intact

• Significance: Single, authentic specimen suitable for serious collectors, geology students, and mineralogists

• Birthstone Reference: February (Amethyst group – color association), April (Quartz group)

Overall, this specimen represents a textbook Skardu apatite–quartz association, combining scientific relevance with collectible aesthetics in a genuine Pakistani mineral classic.

For Geologists:

• Classic pegmatitic association from the Gilgit-Baltistan mineral belt, reflecting late-stage hydrothermal crystallization
• Hexagonal crystal system typical of apatite group minerals (Ca₅(PO₄)₃(F,Cl,OH))
• Purple coloration likely from trace manganese or rare-earth element substitution
• Smoky quartz matrix indicates natural radiation exposure from surrounding granitic host rock

For Collectors:

• Skardu provenance is highly desirable—this region produces world-class apatite specimens
• Untreated status and natural color enhance specimen value and authenticity
• The purple-on-smoky contrast creates strong visual appeal
• At 43 carats (8.6g), it's a cabinet-sized display piece
• Fair condition suggests minor contact damage typical of field specimens

For Students:

• Demonstrates textbook mineral paragenesis (sequence of formation) in pegmatite environments
• Shows how accessory phosphate minerals (apatite) crystallize alongside major rock-forming minerals (quartz)
• Semi-transparency allows study of internal crystal structure and inclusions
• Illustrates how trace elements control gemstone color in phosphate minerals

Rarity Note: Purple apatite from Skardu is significantly rarer than the more common green or blue-green varieties from this locality, making this a noteworthy specimen for serious collectors.