$950Median
226Sold (12 mo)
$1,500Last sale
Dioptase
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We are all familiar with the wonderful large and gemmy emerald green Dioptase crystals from Tsumeb mine in Namibia, but the Tantara mine in the Katanga Copper Crescent in the DRC has also produced some pretty impressive crystals and specimens. This fine small cabinet specimen is an old one. It certainly dates to pre-1958, the year that it was recorded as entering Prof. H. Siegmund's collection in Vienna. The Dioptase crystals might not be quite as gemmy as those from Tsumeb, but boy they are a good size. Quite blocky, or pseudocubic in form, they reach up to 9.5 mm on edge and form a 3 cm thick crust upon gossan containing blue Plancheite (labelled with the old name Katangite). There is some minor bruising to the corners of some of the Dioptase crystals, but this is only really visible under magnification. A very lovely old-time Dioptase, quite distinct from the more common Tsumeb material.
Product details
SpeciesDioptase, Plancheite
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions6.8 x 5.0 x 4.3 cm
Added on12/02/2024
LocalityDR Congo, Haut-Katanga, Tantara Mine
Current owner
Unknown Owner
Previous owners
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| — | Crystal Classics | Not disclosed |
Learn more
Mineral guide
Learn about Dioptase
vivid emerald-green crystals with glassy luster, often on white calcite or quartz; highly collectible due to color, clarity, and brittleness.Regional guide
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