Dioptase

Item Description

Dioptase is known from a few world localities in superb quality specimens, but recently there was a find of new material in the Pool Department of the Congo (Brazzaville). These specimens show great color, with larger sized crystals and EXCELLENT gemminess. This particular specimen features very sharp, highly lustrous, rich emerald green color Dioptase crystals measuring up to 1.3 cmm forming an interesting specimen. As you can see from the photos, the crystals glow with color when backlit. Most of the crystals are incomplete or contacted, but there are a few pristine examples. The piece seems to be somewhat of a "fracture filling", as it's narrow and oddly crystallized. 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"-type quality specimen of this species for a fraction of the price.