Dioptase, Calcite: Tsumeb mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia

Description

Species: Dioptase, Calcite

Locality: Tsumeb mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto region, Namibia

Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.5 x 2.4 cm.

SOLD

Despite recent major finds in the Congo and in Namibia’s Kaokoveld Plateau, dioptase from Namibia’s Tsumeb mine still sets the global standard for the species. This is an excellent cabinet-size plate of lustrous, sharp, vibrant blue-green dioptase crystals to ~7 mm on beautifully-contrasting white dolomite and calcite matrix. This choice piece has all the hallmarks of a great Tsumeb dioptase- isolated crystals on white matrix, great luster, and fine condition. These are getting harder to come by with each passing year, and this is a showy, large example that won’t ‘break the bank.’ Annette Slade photo.