Dioptase (unusual form) (2018 find)

Item Description

Here we have a wonderful Dioptase specimen from the find in 2018 that produced these interesting and unique piece. Although Dioptase is quite popular with collectors, there aren't that many world localities that produce excellent specimens. This specimen is notably different from many of the others we've seen in the past from around Mindouli, as it feature somewhat spherical cluster of crystals, along with "bubbly" hollow forms ("casts") of Dioptase which might have formed after a botryoidal mineral like Chrysocolla or Shattuckite (some have suggested it could be spherical Calcite or Aragonite), or it could be the result of a gas bubble that was crystallized on the exterior. The interior of these "bubbles" piece feature tiny, sharp, lustrous, rich emerald green trigonal Dioptase crystals. The crystals are actually sitting on sparkling grey Calcite, just like Tsumeb. The largest "sphere" of Dioptase measures 8 mm across. Also, upon close inspections there are a few spots of small brilliant orange Mimetite crystals. For the most part, the piece is in great shape, and it's only contacted around the periphery where it was removed from the pocket wall. I had a lot of fun looking at this piece under the microscope. The unusual formation of the Dioptase along with the fact that Dioptase prices are on the rise makes this a very desirable and eye-catching specimen from this exciting locality in Republic on Congo. Priced in the inventory at $950. PLEASE NOTE: These specimens were initially reported as coming from the Mpita Mine, but we have subsequently been informed that they are actually from the Ntola Mine.