Diopside with Graphite - image 1

Diopside with Graphite

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Gem quality Diopside crystals are extremely rare, especially in anything approaching a visible size. The Merelani Hills in the Lelatema Mts, Manyara Region, Tanzania is the premier source. This fine miniature specimen features a cluster of four gemmy prismatic Diopside crystals ranging in size from 2.4 cm to 0.4 cm in length sat upon a small aggregate of platy Graphite. The pale yellow-green crystals show slight zonation in colour from light to dark from base to tip. The largest crystal displays a broad sloping termination which at some angles appears to be fractured, but the termination face is glossy and smooth, the fracturing being a play of light from within. There is, however, some microscopic chipping around the edges of the termination. The second largest crystal is pristine, with wonderful shape, colour and gemminess. It is from the superb systematic collection assembled by the brothers Martin and Michael Günther (1951-2007 & 1956-2021).

Product details

SizeMiniature
Dimensions2.2 x 3.7 x 2.3 cm
Added on03/29/2025
Current owner
Unknown Owner
Acquired
Jul 2026
Price paid
$2,500.00
Previous owners
DateCollectorAcquisition price
—Crystal ClassicsNot disclosed

Learn more

Diopside
Mineral guide
Learn about Diopside
classic clinopyroxene with prism crystals in chrome-green to violane violet, varied habits and marble localities prized by collectors.
Diopside
Regional guide
Diopside from Merelani Hills, Tanzania
Merelani Hills, Tanzania: Diopside prized for lime-green crystals, glassy clarity, and specimen contrast with graphite; a standout locality for collectors.
Locality guide
Merelani Hills
A collector's guide to Merelani Hills, Tanzania: its geology, mining history and notable minerals, illustrated with the 806 specimens documented from this locality on EarthWonders.