And Zdenek Johan is no exception. It's very satisfying when you publish a theory that no one believes, and you're then able to defend it. I was one of the first people to propose a new explanation for the concentration of some elements, for example chrome and platinoids found in magmatic rocks. Everyone else had a different idea, and I knew they were wrong, that I was right. In 1978 they laughed at me, and even warned me, but I stuck to my guns.
People believe in the magic powers of rocks, and claim they play an important role in our lives.
Zdenek Johan rejects the idea resolutely - precisely because he is a scientist. But they are fascinating. Many stones have beautiful colours, sheens, shapes, and these are all things that people find attractive. As a professional I don't have a favourite stone, but I'd say that it's because I'm a professional that I'm fascinated by what nature is able to create. The natural world is a huge chemical laboratory turning out perfect creations - far better than anything we people can produce.