Dioptase (unusual style)

Item Description

PLEASE NOTE: These specimens were initially reported and labeled as coming from the Mpita Mine, but it has been confirmed that they are actually from the Ntola Mine. This piece dates back to a find in January of 2019, and features a style that is certainly odd for the species, as it features somewhat spherical / "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 sharp, lustrous, rich emerald green trigonal Dioptase crystals. Also, upon close inspections there are a few spots of small brilliant orange, Wulfenite or Mimetite crystals that can be seen. For the most part, the piece is in fairly good 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. Most collectors love Dioptase, but there aren't that many world localities that produce excellent specimens. We all know that the prices for Tsumeb Dioptase specimens are on the rise, but you can pick up this attractive "Tsumeb-esque" specimen for a great price, with an association that is rarely seen around the world.