Pollucite (rare fine locality gem) (ex Jim Houran Collection)

Item Description

Pollucite is a rarely seen cesium zeolite mineral, most often found in granitic pegmatites. We've seen fine gem material from famous localities like Newry and Mt Mica in Maine and various places in Afghanistan and Pakistan, but THIS stone is from a highly unlikely locale, the Brown Derby Mine in southwestern Colorado. This locality is well known for its attractive multicolor Tourmaline crystals and other associated species, but to the best of my knowledge it's the only known locality where Pollucite has been reported in the entire state. With that said, the vast majority of the Pollucite from this locality is massive / granular and often translucent at best. Imagine my surprise when this outstanding gem came across my desk. Not only is it gem quality (it's only slightly included), but it's very good sized, weighing in at an impressive 1.71 carats! I can't remember seeing another like it. A truly significant and important stone for any rare gem collector, but its value lies in the fact that it very well may be the finest faceted Pollucite from Colorado. From the collection of Dr. James "Jim" Houran, noted thumbnail mineral collector, gemstone collector and a speaker at our annual Dallas Mineral Symposium. Jim is the Managing Director of AETHOS Consulting Group. He's a 25-year veteran in applied psychological research and a published expert on peak performance, online testing and interpersonal and organizational compatibility. He has authored over 150 articles, and his award-winning work has been profiled by a myriad of media outlets and programs including the Discovery Channel, A&E, BBC, National Geographic, NBC’s Today Show, USA Today, New Scientist, Psychology Today and Forbes.com.