MMX5 Dioptase 
Tantara, Reneville Region, Republic of Congo
4.7x 4.1x 2.3 cm

$250

A beautiful dioptase specimen, from the Republic of Congo.  This is not the same country famous for uranium secondaries and malachite, but rather its neighbor to the west.

Dioptase from this locality is known for its large crystals, and this piece is no exception: the largest crystal measures 1.5 cm.  These are quite a bargain compared to similar specimens from other localities: comparable pieces from Tsumeb (when you can find them) retail for may times more. These Congolese specimens give a lot of bang for the buck.

All in all, this is a beautiful large miniature, composed almost entirely of dioptase.