LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2008 January Signature Natural History #5000  / 

48273

Dioptase on Calcite

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Rocks, Fossils & Minerals Start Price:3,125.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
Dioptase on Calcite
<B>DIOPTASE ON CALCITE</B></I><BR><BR> <I>Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia</B></I><BR>Dioptase: a copper silicate mineral that is rarely encountered in spite of the fact that there are copper mines on every continent except Antarctica (no mining allowed). This is a tragedy since dioptase is one of the minerals most often cited as the most beautiful, particularly by non-collectors. A second tragedy is that the blue-green color of dioptase, like emerald, is virtually impossible to photograph accurately: It always looks better in real life. "Blue-green" doesn't begin to describe the color. In the past, Africa has produced the lion's share of fine dioptase specimens, with Russia a distant second. Of the African localities, the Tsumeb Mine in the north-central part of Namibia has been the most prolific source for this most collectable species. Tragedy Number Three: The Tsumeb Mine closed several years ago and is not likely to re-open. There are a number of variations possible in dioptase from Tsumeb. One of the most sought after is the type seen here, where the dioptase is sparingly distributed along the edges of sharp, white calcite crystals. This 'outlining' enhances the sense of depth of the specimen, while the rich color invites the eye to: linger awhile. The reverse side of the specimen is thickly encrusted with a druze of tiny, sparkling dioptase crystals up to ¼ inch in size. Scattered olive-green duftite micro-crystals also serve to enhance the overall effect. This wonderful jewel stands 3 1/2" high. It is 3 1/4" wide and approximately 1 3/4" thick. It is mounted on a custom RTV base. A true classic from one of the World's premier localities.<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Requires 3rd Party Shipping (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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