Dioptase with Plancheite / Shattuckite

Item Description

There are a few world localities that produce superb Dioptase specimens, and a few years ago we started seeing some impressive speicmens coming out of the Pool Department of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville). THe best specimens host larger than average crystals with fine color, sharpness, luster and somtimes EXCELLENT gemminess. Here we have a very showy and eye-catching small cabinet display specimen featuring sharp, lustrous, gemmy, trigonal, classic emerald green color Dioptase crystals - some of which is actually doubly-terminated - which measure up to 2.1 cm. They are sitting on a thin layer of soft blue colored Plancheite and / or Shattuckite. Both species have been found at this locality, and this piece was analyzed by John Rakovan of the University of Miami of Ohio via powder X-ray diffraction and comparison of data to the JCPDS powder diffraction database (PDF2). We can provide a copy of this analysis for anyone interested. A micro drusy layer of Quartz coats the Shattuckite / Plancheite, giving it a softer appearance. Nearly every crystal of Dioptase is pristine, and the smaller (thinner) crystals glow with color when backlit. I really love how most of the Dioptase crystals are fairly isolated, giving them distinction and the ability to stand out. The combination, form, and overall aesthetic appeal makes this a very desirable and high quality specimen of this very attractive material. Priced in the inventory at $3,500.