2.2" Sparkling Dioptase Crystals on Gemmy Dolomite - N'tola Mine

Sparkling Dioptase Crystals on Gemmy Dolomite - N'tola Mine #210275

This is a beautiful cluster of sparkling dioptase crystals on gemmy, colorless dolomite that was collected from the N'tola Mine of the Republic of the Congo. This mine has been closed since 2019, so this material is old stock. The entire specimen is 2.2" wide and the dioptase is a lustrous, dark emerald-green color.

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.

View All Mineral Specimens