Dioptase with Duftite on Calcite (ex Joe Cilen Collection)

Item Description

Perhaps the single species that is most tied to the famous Tsumeb Mine is Dioptase. The finest Tsumeb Dioptase specimen are truly breathtaking, and now in very short supply on the market. It's quite difficult to find a truly fine Tsumeb Dioptase anymore as they have all disappeared into collections. This small cabinet specimen exhibits classic emerald green color (very difficult to replicate in the photos) that made these specimens so famous. Yes the crystals, are on the smaller side (only up to about 1 mm), but they are in great shape, and they're quite gemmy and bright when backlit. These sharp, lustrous trigonal crystals are associated with the classic combination of crystallized white rhombic Calcite matrix (with crystals up to 1.5 cm) that feature a selective deposition of olive-green Duftite. I don't have to tell you that the value of Tsumeb specimens seems to rise daily, and fine quality specimens are now highly sought after, and prized more than ever by dealers and collectors alike. From the collection of Joe Cilen (#7741). Priced at $850 in the inventory.