An exceptional collector specimen showcasing sharp, glassy emerald-green Dioptase crystals surrounding a sculptural growth of velvety Malachite. The striking contrast between the highly lustrous Dioptase and the silky Malachite creates a dramatic natural composition, while the rich iron-stained matrix provides an attractive backdrop that highlights the vibrant copper minerals.
The Details You Need
✓ Mineral: Dioptase
✓ Associated Minerals: Malachite, Matrix
✓ Locality: Kimbedi, Mindouli, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
✓ Crystal System: Trigonal
✓ Colour: Emerald Green with Deep Green Malachite
✓ Lustre: Vitreous (Dioptase), Silky to Velvety (Malachite)
✓ Transparency: Transparent to Translucent
✓ Crystal Habit: Well-formed Prismatic Crystals with Botryoidal Malachite
✓ Specimen Size: Approximately 75 mm × 47 mm × 27 mm
✓ Weight: 109 g
The Mindouli mining district in the Republic of the Congo is celebrated among mineral collectors for producing some of the world's finest Dioptase specimens. Its intensely coloured crystals, exceptional brilliance and classic copper mineral associations have secured the locality's reputation as one of the premier sources for museum-quality Dioptase.
This specimen displays numerous sharply formed Dioptase crystals with excellent transparency and vitreous lustre arranged around an unusual central formation of velvety Malachite. The contrasting crystal habits create outstanding visual interest, while the natural matrix preserves the specimen's geological character. The balance of colour, texture and crystal quality gives this piece excellent cabinet display appeal from multiple viewing angles.
With its classic Congo provenance, vivid crystal colour and distinctive combination of sparkling Dioptase and sculptural Malachite, this is a highly desirable cabinet specimen that will appeal to collectors of fine copper minerals, African mineral localities and world-class Dioptase displays.
