Epidote (gemmy pleochroic group) (ex Rich Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

During the 1990s, there were several superb quality Epidote specimens coming out of the "Alpine-type" deposits in the high Pakistani mountains around Shigar. These specimens rivaled the finest crystals from the world-famous Alpine localities in Austria (Knappenwand), where the finest examples of the species have been found. What really set the Pakistani specimens apart was not just the size, luster and sharpness, but they were rather gemmy(!) even in thicker crystals, which is not commonly seen from European examples. In recent years, we've noticed that it has become increasingly difficult to find top Epidotes from this locality, as my friends in Pakistan tell me that little is being found. This gorgeous small cabinet display specimen hosts a trio of superb, sharp, lustrous, gemmy prismatic crystals that show excellent pleochroism changing from a strong golden-brown hue to a yellow tone and finishing with a classic green shade when the crystals are rotated in transmitted light. The piece is very good quality all around, with the only real imperfection being along the left edge (second photo) where it was most likely contacted in the pocket. The termination of the tallest crystal is not damaged, but actually has a bit of interrupted growth where I believe a bit of "Byssolite" once grew. You just don't see pieces like this on the market now, and if you consider that most Epidote crystals around the world are "black" and opaque, this piece is in the top echelon in terms of quality for the species. From the "Alpine-type" collection of Richard A. Kosnar and valued at $3,750.