Dioptase on Calcite

Item Description

Crystallized white calcite is the (best) host for a plate of lustrous and translucent, rich emerald-green dioptase crystals, to 7 mm across. This is the classic combination for which Tsumeb dioptase specimens are so justly famous The material came out in the mid-1980s and vaporised into the market then. Today, good plates of this size and condition are rarified and hoarded like "green gold." In this case, the crystals are of a high quality in that they emit gemmy highlights that give the whole specimen a sparkling effect. This is a superb specimen with excellent color, luster, and display aesthetics. Valued at least $2500, though I have seen lesser specimesn for more money, time to time, when you factor in damage and quality issues.