Dioptase on Calcite

Item Description

An outstanding specimen of lustrous, deep emerald green Dioptase on an underlying Calcite matrix associated with a little accent of light green Duftite. Dozens upon dozens of sharp, textbook, 1/2 to 1 cm, well-formed Dioptase crystals essentially mound up and cover the entire matrix on this sparkling and 3-dimensional small cabinet specimen. The exceptionally bright crystals all have a rich, translucent, emerald green color showing numerous internal reflections that add even more sparkle to the already vibrant crystals! This is classic Tsumeb color and luster from the mid 1980s! The wealth of crystals are mounded up on the piece and display prominently with good isolation to the Dioptase, even though they are somewhat intergrown, so that very distinct crystals are easily apparent. Tiny, sparkling olive-green Duftite crystals line a relatively large area at the bottom of the piece and add great color contrast! Both the Dioptase and Duftite are on a matrix of crystalline, snow-white Calcite rhombs that are readily apparent on the sides and underside of the piece. Complete all around other than some minor contacts around the periphery, this is a small cabinet display quality piece, and would easily fetch $5-8k if sitting on shelves at a show. A gorgeous Tsumeb Dioptase piece!