Dioptase - Specimen

Locality: Republic of the Congo

Description: Congo's dioptase has a long history in European collections. The mineral was first noted from "Gabon" in 1874. In 1890, crystals brought back by the explorer Thollon from the Mindouli mine, between Bouenza and Brazzaville, went on display at the Paris natural history museum, where they were said to rival the classic dioptase of Siberia.

Dioptase is a hydrated copper silicate. It forms near the surface, where weathering copper ores release copper that combines with silica, and the copper gives it its intense green colour.

This dioptase specimen from the Congo shows deep green crystals set across a pale blue-green and dark brown matrix, giving it strong contrast and an unusual landscape-like appearance. The surface has a mix of rounded botryoidal areas, rough natural texture, and scattered crystal pockets where the dioptase stands out with a glassy luster.

In crystal traditions, dioptase is associated with truth and emotional clarity. Many people are drawn to it for its strong color and its reputation as a stone of release, insight, and renewal. As a display specimen, it is often chosen by those who want something visually bold that also carries a sense of depth and reflection.

Chemical Composition: CuSiO3·H2O

Quantity: 1pc
With this product, you will get the actual stone in the photograph.