Dioptase on Matrix from Congo – Kimbedi, Mindouli

This striking Dioptase on Matrix from Congo features a cavity lined with sharply formed emerald-green dioptase crystals that display excellent lustre and depth. The rich crystal coverage is beautifully complemented by contrasting iron-rich matrix, while numerous tiny rounded green spheres are scattered naturally across the crystal faces, adding texture and mineralogical interest to an already impressive specimen.

Specimen Details

✓ Mineral: Dioptase on Matrix
✓ Associated Mineral: Botryoidal Malachite
✓ Locality: Kimbedi, Mindouli, Brazzaville, Congo
✓ Crystal System: Trigonal
✓ Crystal Habit: Rhombohedral Crystals on Matrix
✓ Colour: Emerald Green
✓ Lustre: Vitreous
✓ Transparency: Transparent to Translucent
✓ Specimen Size: Approximately 57mm × 32mm × 38 mm
✓ Weight: 67 g

Kimbedi, near Mindouli in the Republic of the Congo, is one of the world's premier localities for collector-quality dioptase, producing specimens prized for their vivid colour, brilliant lustre and exceptional crystal form. This example is further enhanced by tiny botryoidal malachite spheres that formed alongside the dioptase during the oxidation of copper-rich mineral deposits. These delicate spherical growths are a classic mineral association from the locality, providing valuable evidence of the specimen's geological history while adding an attractive textural contrast to the sharp, lustrous dioptase crystals.

The combination of well-defined crystal faces, contrasting matrix and naturally associated botryoidal malachite creates an aesthetically balanced cabinet specimen that will appeal to both serious mineral collectors and enthusiasts of classic African copper minerals. With its renowned Congo provenance and distinctive mineral associations, this is an excellent example from one of the world's most famous dioptase localities.