Calcite included by Dioptase

Item Description

Beautiful and complex, this cluster of Calcite crystals is from the famous Tsumeb mine, which is certainly known for its wide range of clear and included Calcites - more variety than from anywhere else. But it is unusual to see such uniform coloration in this size, and the color is such an enchanting and rich mint-green at that! The largest crystal is 1.8 cm on edge, and where the outer rim of this small-cabinet piece is contacted, you can see the sharp delineation of the 2 mm, included, outer layer. A number of the Calcite faces have small areas that are tiered depressions. It is here that you can see gemmy, 0.5 mm little Dioptase crystals exposed as they dance across these areas. If there was any doubt what created the green coloration, these are the proof in the pudding. The Calcite has its classic orange fluorescence, in this case muted by the included micro Dioptases. Aside from the contacting, there is just a bit of wear in a few spots on the Calcites, but the overall aesthetics, and the uniqueness of this combination, really carry the day. A special piece, for what it is, and a dramatic combination of color and geometry in a case.