1.4" Lustrous Dioptase Crystals on Plancheite - Republic of the Congo

Lustrous Dioptase Crystals on Plancheite - Republic of the Congo #266247

This is a beautiful cluster of dioptase crystals collected from the Mindouli District in the Republic of the Congo. The crystals exhibit a brilliant luster and bear the alluring emerald-green coloration unique to dioptase. These crystals formed in association with blue plancheite which can be seen around the periphery of the specimen.

It has been mounted to an acrylic display base with mineral tack.

Dioptase is an uncommon mineral, found mostly in desert regions where it forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide mineral deposits. This copper-based mineral forms small rhombohedral crystals, typically less than 0.75 centimeters in length. It is popular with mineral collectors due to its vibrant color and it is occasionally cut into small emerald-like gems.

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