Kosnarite (incredibly rare) (ex Rich Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

Kosnarite is potassium, zirconium phosphate and was named after Richard Kosnar in 1993. The co- type localities for the species are the Mt. Mica Quarry and the Black Mountain Quarry in Maine. The first crystals at these finds barely approached 1 mm on edge. Several years ago, Luiz Menezes made a discovery of what are the finest crystallized Kosnarite specimens in existence with crystals up to 4 mm (which is a quantum leap in size)! This is a specimen from that find featuring small (approx 1 mm) sharp, lustrous, yellow color, pseudo-cubic (trigonal) crystals on bladed white Albite. If you look closely, you'll see a small truncated face on each "cube" of Kosnarite on this specimen, which is actually a pinacoid or a "c" face as these crystals are trigonal and not isometric as they might appear. The quality on this specimen is as good as Kosnarite gets from any locality in the world. For the size and rarity of the specimen, it will more than likely end up being a great bargain for one of you lucky bidders. This piece is directly from Rich Kosnar's personal collection, and was one of the last pieces he acquired before he died.