Dioptase

 
This dioptase specimen has an exceptionally large main crystal, combined with the trademark color that dioptase is known for.  All of the crystals are well formed and frame the main crystal quite well.  The piece also has a lighter shade of color speckled within the typical and more abundant dark color, making a striking contrast and uniqueness beyond the typical specimen of this mineral.  The luster is also great, which really rounds out the piece.  From Katanga, Republic of Congo.  Acquired Denver, 2024.
 
From the Republic of Congo.We recommend mounting this with putty on the Small Acrylic Base as pictured, both included with purchase.
 
Dioptase is a strikingly vibrant mineral known for its deep emerald to bluish-green color, prized by collectors for its powerful displays of color. It is a secondary copper mineral, forming prismatic, vitreous crystals typically found in oxidized copper deposits. With a relatively low Mohs hardness of 5, dioptase is too fragile for most jewelry and is usually only available as raw crystals. Significant deposits are found in arid, copper-rich regions like Kazakhstan, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.