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 dramatic , oldstyle fluorite specimen from the classic Illinois mines. This one ended up in Europe decades ago, and is now being repatriated perhaps. It features intense, saturated purple color with sharp phantoms inside. True, it needs backlighting to be appreciated - but not all that much, and it is worth the effort to aim a light inside as you can see. The sharp cubic fluorites are accented by sharp scalenohedral calcites like little flowers on the surface, front and back. The cluster is complete on the front and sides, nearly so on the back; and is contacted on the bottom. Ex. Klaus Neumann collection. Joe Budd photos.

This cute miniature features a sharp, deep green, 13 x 10 x 10 mm crystal perched nicely in contrasting matrix! It is not of gem rough calibre, but DOES have a lot of transparency and brightness and is certainly a worthy specimen without breaking the bank. For a specimen emerald, the color is quite intense and the price very affordable!