TSU17-02
Dioptase
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
Small Cabinet, 5.4 x 3.2 x 1.3 cm
SOLD

Dioptase, or "poor man's emerald" when it came out in 1984-1985 in quantity, is now actually one of the hardest things to get in good quality from Tsumeb. People want them, and have hoarded them ever since. This is a rich, dense plate of Dioptase crystals from the greatest of all mines to most collectors, Tsumeb. The crystals reach up to 1 cm, and the color saturation and luster are SUPERB. At their best, Tsumeb diotase crystals are simply untouchable with that extra bit of luster and color together. All the Dioptases get more rare and more pricey every year. Tsumeb is gone for good, and these stand as one of the great finds of the century from any mine, really only coming out for a few years in the mid-1980s. Nearly pristine, this piece has just a few tiny, trivial dings on its whole length despite its exposure to the elements; and is a high level of display quality in this size range. Much better in person, where you can really appreciate just how gemmy the crystals are. For the presentation impact, I really feel this is about the best solid plate of high quality dioptase of this quality you will ever see under $5000 these days.