A very large, pastel green fluorite crystal sits perched on a nest of small , lustrous sphalerites here. Large octos from Naica are much more rare than the cubic forms, and seldom seen in this quality. The crystal measures 3 inches on a line. Actually, is frontal face terminates not in an octohedral point, but in a modified cubic termination (as coming out of the screen). One of the highlights of this fine old Mexican mineral collection. Joe Budd photos.

This unusual, elongated and pointed-tipped crystal of phenakite is from a small find made in about 2004, which was brought out by Italian dealers and experts in Madagascar minerals, Emanuele Marini and Federico Pezzotta. It was at the time, the best matrix example from the pocket, which they had for sale. To this day, despite finds of the mineral at other localities, i have never seen another quite like this. The crystal is actually doubly-terminated, and is 5 cm long. It is not repaired, and was expertly exposed in this matrix of calcite. Joe Budd photos.

This jewel-like cluster features brilliantly clustrous, clear fluorites showing cuboctohedral crystals. They are perched on equally sparkling galena, making for a stark contrast that really just leaps out , despite not having the traditional pastel color hues most Naica fluorite has. Minor white calcite acts as an accent, and by its opacity , highlights the separation of individual fluorite crystals. The overall look of this combination piece is just different, and more brilliantly lustrous, than most Naica specimens. It stands on its own merits for quality, and is more than another locality piece. Despite the good photos, it is even better in person. One of the special fluorites among many in this fine old Mexican mineral collection. Joe Budd photos.

A classic neon-green pyromorphite form the early 1980s finds here, with that unique, saturated color that to most people is still unequaled. Although the crystals are smallish, the piece overall is very pretty and elegant, sparkling like glass from all the little reflections. The pyromorphite covers a tentacle of gossan matrix, and is in excellent condition. From the collection of Carlton Davis of Ohio. Joe Budd photos.

This specimen has the deepest green color saturation I have seen in a Naica fluorite, combined with sparkling luster! The crystal is a complex octohedron with many-stepped faces reflecting light, perched up on galena. It is 4 cm across. One of the special fluorites among many in this fine old Mexican mineral collection. Joe Budd photos.