Epidote (superb termination) (ex Rich Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

Many people would agree that the finest examples of crystallized Epidote are those from the famous Knappenwand locality in the Austrian Alps. Going back to the early 1990s, Pakistan started producing Epidote specimens that were of the same standard as their Austrian counterparts, and in some cases, surpassed them in terms of crystallization and transparency. The "Alpine-type" deposits of the Shigar Valley are quite similar to the true Alpine mineralization at the Knappenwand, so it makes sense why the piece are so similar in quality. This piece dates back to circa 1992-1993 and is one of the best crystallized Epidotes from Pakistan that we've had to offer. The key aspect of the specimen is the stunning termination of the main crystal, which has supremely sharp and highly lustrous faces. They brilliant luster combined with perfect geometric form of the faces is about as good as you'll see for the material, especially from Pakistan. The main Epidote is also a bit thicker than most you'll see from Pakistan as well. The color is a very dark black-green hue, and the thickness of the crystals don't allow for much in way of translucency, but the color shows up well enough on the surface in reflected light, with brighter green flashes in spots. Both sides of the piece are notably lustrous, there isn't a dull face that I can find anywhere. The piece is in very good condition, as the main crystal is undamaged, and there are only a few small imperfections on some of the accessory crystals. Be sure to check out the video for this piece as I think it best illustrates the quality of the termination. If you love Alpine or "Alpine-type" minerals, or you're a fan of Pakistani minerals, don't pass up this superb crystallized specimen for a great price. Pieces like this have not been found in many years, and you'd be hard-pressed to find another of this quality anywhere else right now. Valued around $4,000-$5,000 retail. From the collection of Richard A. Kosnar 1946-2007) one of the great mineral dealers and collectors of his day, and the namesake for the phosphate species Kosnarite.