Dioptase (2019 find)

Item Description

Here we have a beautiful specimen from the Mpita Mine, from the recent find in January of 2019. Most collectors love Dioptase, but there aren't that many world localities that produce excellent specimens. Earlier this year we were fortunate to purchase a small parcel of brand new specimens this now well-known mine near the small village of Kimbedi located on the railroad between Lutete and Mindouli in Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville). These new specimens are somewhat different from many of the specimens we've seen in the past as they features beautiful semi-spherical clusters of Dioptase sprinkled over the matrix. Some of the clusters are fairly isolated, given them good separation than most of the Mpita Dioptases. At a quick glance, one can see this as a Tsumeb specimen, because the Dioptase crystals are sitting on small silvery-white colored rhombic Calcite, but after looking closely, you can see it has its own distinctive appearance. The color of the Dioptase crystals shows that classic emerald green hue, and they are highly lustrous with prismatic trigonal form. With some magnification, I found a few tiny brilliant orange-yellow crystals of what is either Wulfenite or Mimetite. Looking closely, the piece is in great shape, with only a few small nicks. Considering the prices paid for Tsumeb specimens, you can pick up this almost "Tsumeb"-quality, attractive specimen for a great price.