Dioptase with Fornacite

Description

An intensely coloured cluster of emerald-green Dioptase crystals accented by rare Fornacite, with sharp crystal form, rich saturation and excellent display presence.

This exceptional specimen originates from the renowned N’tola Mine in the Mindouli District of the Republic of the Congo, a classic African locality celebrated for producing highly collectable Dioptase crystals.

The display face is richly covered with well-formed Dioptase crystals showing deep emerald-green colour and natural vitreous lustre. Crisp, reflective crystal faces create strong contrast against the darker matrix, while accents supplied as rare Fornacite add mineralogical interest and collector appeal.

Measuring approximately 5 × 4 × 2.5 cm, the crystal grouping presents attractively from several angles. The specimen is supplied with its bevelled glass display base, and the six photographs plus video show the exact piece offered.

The recorded Fornacite association gives this Dioptase piece another aspect of interest alongside the emerald-green crystals. It follows the attribution supplied with the specimen; the description does not establish a new identification from appearance alone. The contrast between the main crystal growth and the associated material is part of its appeal as a mineral association.

Dioptase is a hydrated copper silicate, distinct from emerald despite its striking green colour. It forms in the oxidised zone of some copper deposits and is particularly appealing when its glassy crystal faces remain exposed. The combination of strong colour and clearly crystallised growth gives it a recognisable place among copper minerals.

A Dioptase group rewards attention to both the larger faces and the smaller crystals between them. Changes in viewing angle can turn a dark surface into a bright reflection without changing the mineral itself. Its crystal arrangement, distribution over the matrix and overall silhouette help distinguish one piece from another. These are the features that give a cluster its individual display character.

The recorded origin is N’tola Mine, Mindouli District, Republic of the Congo. The locality and mineral associations follow the information supplied with this specimen. Its individual growth and matrix provide the visual details described here.

The specimen measures 5 × 4 × 2.5 cm, with a recorded weight of 65.09 g. Its compact presentation makes it suitable for a boxed mineral collection, where the individual crystals and their association can be appreciated at close range.

Condition: Natural and unenhanced. Please examine every image for crystal edges, contact areas and surface detail, and contact us if you would like any further condition information.

Dioptase crystals and their contact areas can be fragile. Support the matrix or display base, avoiding pressure on exposed crystal edges. A stable indoor display is well suited to appreciating the green colour and glassy reflections without frequent handling.