Dioptase, Willemite, Wulfenite

An interesting and highly desirable miniature specimen of micro dioptase from the classic Mammoth-Saint Anthony Mine. The piece features bright, prismatic dioptase crystals associated with mostly broken bits of small orange wulfenite crystals and compressed hexagonal willemite, creating a visually engaging multi-mineral assemblage under the microscope. This specimen comes from the international collection of Peter Tarassoff, adding strong provenance and collectability.

Old-time dioptase specimens from the Tiger area are among the most sought-after examples of the species in Arizona and are rarely seen on the market. Despite the abundance of secondary copper minerals in the state, well-crystallized dioptase is uncommon, and many collectors regard Tiger as the finest Arizona locality for the species. The frequent association with wulfenite and willemite is a hallmark of this material.