Dioptase ex Kidwell - superb miniature

Item Description

When it comes to Dioptase, there is no locality greater or more prolific than Tsumeb for quality and quantity. This miniature exhibits the top emerald-green color and on a bright white Calcite matrix that made these specimens so famous. The largest crystal in the cluster at the top of the piece measures 1.7 cm in length and there are a dozen, smaller, gemmy, isolated crystals on the white Calcite that stand out like little jewels. Dioptase on Calcite is the most highly desired of combinations from Tsumeb because of the splendid color contrast. All of the crystals are in very good condition and the luster is top-notch. The Dioptases are gemmy enough to show the brilliant green fire that is so eye-catching. This is a perfectly balanced miniature, we value at $2500-plus as these go, and this is so choice, so sharp, so colorful, I'd put it somewhat higher compared to most of the mediocrity out there. The Calcite is even fluorescent! From the diverse and historic collection of one of the great field collectors and mineralogists of mid-1900s Texas, Albert Kidwell of Houston (1919-2008), after whom the mineral Kidwellite is named.