Dioptase

Name: Dioptase
SKU: 33218-PT
Price: 350.00 CAD
Availability: InStock

33218-PT Category: Africa (Namibia, Tsumeb) - Various Species Tag: Featured

Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto Region

Namibia

Dimensions: 3.5x4.5x3.0 cm

Largest crystal size: 15 mm

Price: CA

$350.00

With the closure of the renowned Tsumeb Mine, top-quality specimens like this dioptase have become exceedingly rare. This specimen displays vibrant emerald-green dioptase crystals that seem to glow when illuminated, demonstrating the superior quality Tsumeb is famous for. The piece features sharp, trigonal dioptase crystals, well-situated within a matrix of calcite and pink dolomite, creating a striking colour contrast. Additionally, small clusters of velvety, light blue plancheite, fine-grained yellow-green duftite, and colourless micro-rhombohedrons of calcite enhance its visual appeal and mineralogical complexity.

Dioptase specimens from Tsumeb are prized for their intense colour, transparency, and high lustre, setting the global standard for the mineral. This piece, acquired by Dr. Tarassoff from Eugene E. Schlepp of Western Minerals at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in 1979, reflects the unique hydrothermal, copper-rich environment of Tsumeb, which produced dioptase with unrivaled clarity and crystallization.

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal by the Mineralogical Association of Canada.

Peter's dedication to systematic collecting, curating his collection, and maintaining an archive of detailed historical and scientific information has greatly benefited the mineral sciences community both in Canada and globally. All specimens from this collection come with the original P. Tarassoff collection label.

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

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