This is an elegant cluster of CHERRY-RED rhodochrosite from the famous finds of circa 1979-1982, from the Kalahari Manganese Fields. It was long held in the noted collection of Norm and Roz Pellman of Tucson, for almost 30 years. Like nearly all pieces from these finds, there is some tip damage on a few crystals, though here it is very minimal. The piece has extraordinary lustre and color, and is very gemmy and bright! Joe Budd Photos

This specimen was featured in the exhibition "MINERAL DREAMS: Brazilian Gem treasures" at the Munich show of 2010. It is one of the most bizarre apatite specimens I have come across, with carved-looking blue apatite crystals sitting one atop the other like stacked flying saucers. It is sharp, and the color and crystal forms are very impactful. The crystal atop is one inch across, and fairly translucent. It is freestanding and pristine - just an amazingly odd growth showing such sharply developed symmetry. I have not seen another specimen like this, to date, and was told it came out in about 2007.Joe Budd Photos

This monstrous crystal of magnetite masses at 600 grams! It is huge, and sharp, and naturally lustrous, Past finds of magnetite from this locale have been impressive for luster and the size of the plates, but THIS crystal outstrips any I have ever seen for sheer size and importance. Except for the bottom periphery, it is complete all around. Found in late 2010.Joe Budd Photos