Description

Dioptase is one of the most sought-after species from Tsumeb, and Tsumeb dioptase is often referred to as the best of species, in part because of sharpness, lustre and top colour, but also due to the translucency and transparency (giving life to these specimens under the lights), and in addition, in some cases the contrast with white calcite.

This is an absolutely gorgeous Tsumeb dioptase specimen. The razor-sharp, highly lustrous deep dioptase-green larger crystals (to 1.3 cm) are surrounded by intense, vibrant, sugary, tiny gemmy dioptase crystals, and all against a contrasting background of white calcite crystals. In excellent condition.  The still photos convey the look better than the video (although the video shows the lustre and sparkle nicely).

Formerly in the collection of John S. White and my own collection. Labels included.

This Tsumeb dioptase has all the elements of a great one!

Please Note: the colour representation in the still photographs has been carefully calibrated and adjusted to show an accurate rendition of this specimen in daylight (shade). The colours in the video are not similarly adjusted.