Detailed Description
This is a beautiful specimen, with intense green, sharp, lustrous dioptase crystals, spread out a bit with nice separation on the matrix. In addition to the contrast, what makes this one stand out is the transparency of the dioptase - these crystals have excellent internal play of light. In excellent condition - no damage other than a couple of very small incomplete crystals at the periphery - inconsequential relative to the size of the specimen. Stands perfectly for display as photographed, the matrix on the backside has been reduced with a saw (not visible as displayed). This is a gorgeous piece!
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About These Dioptase Specimens
Dioptase was first described from Altyn Tyube, the type locality for dioptase, in the nineteenth century. Altyn Tyube is a remarkable deposit in the Steppes, far from everywhere. It was first worked for copper thousands of years B.C., and it is interesting to note that there are very few copper minerals at the locality – dioptase with occasional minor malachite and cuprite. These beautiful specimens are contemporary, acquired from the team currently conducting specimen mining at Altyn Tyube.