Dioptase (with a large crystal)

Item Description

Dioptase is known from a few world localities in superb quality specimens, but recently there was a find of new material in the Pool Region of the Congo. These specimens show great color, with larger sized crystals and excellent gemminess. This particular specimen hosts a several very sharp, somewhat gemmy, rich emerald green color Dioptase crystals - the largest measuring 3.1 cm (over an inch!), The piece is actually a dual-generation growth with the larger crystals underneath that are coated by a second generation of "drusy" crystals. The largest crystal on this piece is certainly one of the biggest I have seen from this locality, or virtually any world locality. This find seemed to be somewhat limited, and hopefully will produce more of this SUPERB quality Dioptase. With the price of Tsumeb Dioptase specimens rising daily, this is a great opportunity to snag a "Tsumeb"-type quality specimen of this species for a fraction of the price. Valued at $1200.