SOLD
VLT-28
Dioptase
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
Cabinet, 9.5 x 5.0 x 2.7 cm
Ex. Eric Asselborn
SOLD
This remarkable specimen features one of the largest single dioptase crystals I have ever seen or heard of, smack in the middle (3.2 cm or 1.33 inches). It has intense color, the top deep green hue you would want: riveting in the intensity. Completely free of damage, this is a MAJOR Tsumeb dioptase the likes of which was not common even in the day when they were coming out. It has been in Eric's collection for 20 years. Dioptases from Tsumeb, along with Rhodos from Sweet Home Mine, just go up in value every year; as they stand among the "sexiest" of mineral specimens and their source is now defunct. I have seen many dioptase specimens priced in the 20-50 and even higher price ranges in recent years. Every year sees higher prices. However, that being said, I have NOT seen a piece comparable in terms of crystal size and impact - some are larger specimens or show isolated crystals more dramatically, but for overall significance I think this one is a real value for what you get for the money.