3" Pristine, Transparent Quartz on Dioptase - Sanda Mine, Congo

Pristine, Transparent Quartz on Dioptase - Sanda Mine, Congo #209697

This is a stunning formation of dioptase that is covered in pristine, transparent quartz crystals, collected from the Sanda Hills occurrences (Sanda mine) of the Republic of the Congo. Blue shattuckite formations can be seen along the exterior of the specimen. This mine has been closed since 2019, so this material is old stock. The entire specimen is 3" wide and the dioptase is a lustrous, emerald-green color.

It comes with an acrylic display stand.

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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