Detailed information
Species
Dioptase, Calcite
Dimensions
35 x 42 x 28
mm
Weight
27 g
Locality
Tsumeb Mine Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region Namibia
Condition
No recorded repairs
Tsumeb mine is renowned for its amazing Calcite crystals, especially those rare examples with colourful inclusions of copper-bearing secondary mineral species. Duftite, Mottramite and Malachite are well-known, but Dioptase is much rarer. This fabulous miniature specimen is one of those rare treasures. Tiny emerald-green crystals of Dioptase float suspended within, and sat upon the surface of, colourless rhombic Calcite crystals. The Calcite crystals reach 2.2 cm on edge and are well-formed and twinned, with transparent to translucent interiors allowing the green inclusions to stand out. There is minor chipping along the edges of the Calcite crystals, but really magnification is required to be able to spot this. Otherwise, this is a really high quality example of this rare type of included Calcite from Tsumeb. Ex Weyand Collection.
