KRE-05

Dioptase (old piece pre-1957)

$1,800.00

Small Cabinet, 7.4 x 6.2 x 4.6 cm

Tantara Mine, Shinkolobwe, Katanga, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ex. Kay Robertson

Very fine, this classic Congo Dioptase is an undulating and sculptural small cab that is virtually all Dioptase crystals. The Dioptases themselves are gemmy and lustrous, with a rich emerald-green color and the 'fire' that is so coveted. The largest of these is about 1.2 cm long. One side of the specimen even has a partial oxide coating on many of the crystals, which add a very attractive contrast, and sharp definition, to the crystals. #187 in Kay's collection, this old-timer certainly dates back to the 1950s or before, as it was actually acquired by Kay in 1957 from a California dealer named Shale. Good quality and good aesthetics. Highly unusual, overall. Better in person. We do not see many of these old pieces!