Dioptase with 2 cm crystal - superb old classic

Brazzaville-Reneville Mine, Brazzaville Dept, Republic of Congo
Small Cabinet, 5.6 x 5.0 x 4.0 cm
Start Time: 08/14/2011 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 08/30/2011 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

NOT just another contemporary Kaokoveld dioptase, or a more common Tsumeb piece from the 1980s: Superb cluster of lustrous and gemmy Dioptase crystals from one of the world's premier localities, the old Reneville locality in Congo, from the 1960s or so. All the Dioptase crystals have a fabulous, mirror-like luster, gorgeous deep green color, and the terminations can flash an almost iridescent green when the light catches them just right. The largest crystal is a very impressive 2 cm tall by about 1.2 cm across. Superb aesthetics, between the color, luster, and distribution of the Dioptases. A killer in quality that holds its own with Tsumeb pieces, this is certainly the finest and most valuable piece in the current auction. It was preserved in the personal collection of noted African-specialized mineral dealer Charlie Key, and is valued at $2500. Minimum. In person this is perhaps more evident, so trust us. A Tsumeb piece of comparable quality would cost AT LEAST this much if not more. The matrix is slightly off for Tsumeb, or folks would think it was, for the size and quality, Tsumeb dioptase.

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