I am commenting on the accompanying video of some massive geode specimens that Sheri and I saw in Tucson at the gem shows. It is common to see spectacular crystal specimens on display and we would always see them along highway I-10 as you headed south through the downtown. These huge amethyst, citrine and clear quartz geodes are usually on display in their sawdust filled coffins of crated wood, slightly tilted back like dead gunslingers in front of the mortuary in the old west. The video shows an incredible 15 foot tall behemoth that came from some location in South America (sometimes you get the real story for the price of a cup of coffee and a burrito) and is encrusted with beautiful, tiny amethyst crystals along the entire interior. The other geode is displayed as the largest of its kind in the world and you could fit a child’s birthday party inside.
Many of these tremendous crystal specimens are from caves or pockets of rock that are buried in clay. We sell large, architectural mineral specimens but these are a whole different world! The beauty of these is mirrored with the problems of shipping and installation. I remember when we first started selling them and I had to rent a forklift to get them off the shipping truck…that’s when I realized the difficulty many of the vendors face when they bring them to shows. The other minor detail is that when they are shipped, the dealer does NOT certify them to arrive to you in one piece. If they should crack, split, chip or separate during shipping…tough cookies. Many galleries and museums will arrive with their own truck and packing materials to insure safe arrival. Imagine one of these rarities in your courtyard at home or in your entrance foyer with subtle lighting, accenting the sparkling crystals….and overhearing your guests question, How big do these things get…?