Dioptase (classic material)

Item Description

Here we have a classic piece of what might the signature mineral species for the famous Tsumeb Mine. Dioptase is found in many worldwide localities, but without question the finest and most celebrated examples are those from this prolific locality. The piece was mined in the late 1960s-early 1970s, and features a handful of highly lustrous, sharp, trigonal emerald green crystals measuring up to 1.2 cm, sitting on Calcite matrix. Unfortunately the larger crystals have some contacted areas, but the smaller ones are in good shape and glow with electric green color when backlit. Still a lovely representation of this old classic material from Tsumeb. This piece comes from the collection of Colorado mining legend, Dave Bergman. Dave is now retired from mining, but spent many years underground, including as the foreman and primary person in charge of recovering specimens at the famous Sweet Home Mine near Alma, Colorado during the late 1970s. He is also the maternal grandfather of Brian Kosnar. See Dave's photo mining at the Sweet Home on page 58 of Peter Bancroft's book "Gem and Crystal Treasures".