Dioptase (classic material) (ex Brian Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

Of the over 300 mineral species found at the famous Tsumeb Mine, Dioptase may very well be the most coveted and valuable. There is no other place on earth that has produced Dioptase crystals of the size and quality of Tsumeb. These specimens are some of the most recognized, classic and hands down beautiful pieces in the mineral world. The crystals on this specimen exhibit a beautiful rich emerald green color (impossible to replicate in photos) which made these specimens so famous. The crystals measure up to 1.4 cm and feature sharp, lustrous and very well-formed faces with an excellent textbook trigonal shape. The crystals themselves are in good condition overall and look beautiful against the underlain white Calcite. There is a small amount of yellow-green Duftite here and there for a nice touch. I can't find any major damage, and the smaller crystals are beautiful to view up close. Valued at $2,500-$3,000. From the collection of Brian Kosnar.