Karl & Carol Warning I developed a deep appreciation for natural wonders and culture through annual family driving vacations; we had visited 48 states and nine Canadian provinces by the time I was 13. National parks, open pit mines, Disneyland, caverns and the Smithsonian mineral collection are all fond memories for me. I began mineral collecting when I transferred to the University of Texas at Austin to study geology in 1968, buying inexpensive specimens from the Colonel Barron dealer stock. My interest continued to bloom through graduate school at UT. I met Julius and Miriam Zweibel at the Dallas Show in 1978 and purchased my first fine minerals from them with oil company paychecks! I was especially captivated by the beauty of Tsumeb minerals. My collecting philosophy has evolved to encompass aesthetic worldwide miniatures to small cabinet specimens, with a particular emphasis on pyromorphite and calcite. Form, crystallization, matrix and freedom from damage are primary considerations. Carol continues to be an invaluable partner in specimen acquisition. I have discussed the MAD group with numerous dealers, collectors and curators over the years. We are a unique group of mineral enthusiasts and friends who willingly share our passion and experience in this fascinating hobby of natural beauty.
Cerussite, 6.2 cm, Tsumeb mine, Tsumeb, Namibia. Ex Zweibel, Tate, Dyck collections. Jeff Scovil photo. 156
Supplement to The Mineralogical Record, January–February, 2009