Dioptase

Item Description

Dioptase is known from a few world localities in superb quality specimens, but recently there was a find of new material near Kimbedi, which is a small village on the railroad between Mindouli and Lutete in Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville). These specimens show great color, with larger sized crystals and EXCELLENT gemminess. This specimen hosts sharp, rich emerald green color Dioptase crystals measuring up to 1.4 cm with a minor amount of RARELY seen soft blue Plancheite (on the side and bottom of the specimen) creating an attractive piece. One of the very few Plancheite associations I've seen from this locality. The piece is in good shape overall, with only a little bit of damage on the center crystals. This find seemed to be somewhat limited, and hopefully will produce more of this SUPERB quality Dioptase. With the price of Tsumeb Dioptase specimens rising daily, this is a great opportunity to snag a "Tsumeb"-like specimen of this species for a fraction of the price. Valued at $900.