Dioptase Geode - Height: 11 cm - Width: 9 cm- 530 g - (1)

XXL Dioptase & Velvet Malachite Museum Specimen – 530 g – Highly Transparent

Exclusive mineral assemblage from a high-end collection
Discover the fascinating aesthetic of our natural XXL dioptase museum specimen in excellent quality—a mineralogical rarity of exceptional beauty. This untreated specimen captivates with the harmonious interplay of intensely emerald-green, partly spectacularly transparent dioptase crystals and fine, needle-like malachite structures.
In selected areas, this unpolished showpiece reveals three small, beautifully crystallized cavities in which the needle-like malachite is embedded with a brilliant sparkle. Depending on the angle of the light, the specimen displays a fascinating velvet cat’s-eye effect (chatoyancy), elegantly complemented by the luminous blue and turquoise hues of rare plancheite and shattuckite inclusions.
Whether as an impressive showpiece for discerning collections, exclusive home decor with a geological history, or an educational display specimen, this spectacular large specimen is a one-of-a-kind creation that took millions of years to form in nature’s depths.
To guarantee the absolute authenticity of this rare mineral assemblage, a separate certificate of authenticity is included with the delivery.

Mineralogical Description and Classification

• Classification: Copper paragenesis / secondary mineral assemblage (large specimen)
• Mineral class: Silicates (dioptase, plancheite, shattuckite) & carbonates (malachite)
• Crystal system: Trigonal (dioptase), monoclinic (malachite), orthorhombic (plancheite / shattuckite)
• Chemical composition: Complex structure of copper silicates CuSiO₃ ⋅ H₂O and basic copper carbonate \(\text{Cu}_2[(\text{OH})_2\vert{}\text{CO}_3]\)
• Special feature: This specimen brings together four of the most sought-after copper minerals in a spectacular matrix. The visual highlight is the three small crystal cavities, where highly glittering velvet malachite stands in direct contrast to highly transparent dioptase crystals. The embedded, clear calcite or quartz crystals provide a brilliant natural contrast and emphasize its museum-quality character.

Unique Crystal Geometry and Spectacular Diamond Luster

On closer inspection, this high-end specimen reveals fascinating micromineralogical highlights: In places, the highly glittering, needle-like velvet malachite grows in perfect geometric lines and angles, artfully tracing the sharply defined shapes of the dioptase crystals. A real eye-catcher is the intense natural surface luster of the dioptase faces—in the right light, the highly transparent facets reflect deep golden highlights that sparkle like an inner fire and perfectly underscore the flawless quality of this natural assemblage.

The Natural Matrix – A Genuine Piece of Geological History

A special quality feature of this XXL museum specimen becomes apparent when viewed from the back: The specimen rests on its original, rugged rock matrix. The reddish-brown host rock, threaded with fine mineral veins, bears witness to the harsh nature of the locality and provides the perfect earthy contrast to the intensely luminous crystal carpet on the front. This natural underside not only ensures a stable, impressive display in a showcase, but also guarantees the complete authenticity of this exclusive object.

Lot Details and Technical Specifications

• Object: Natural mineral specimen (large specimen)
• Main minerals: Dioptase, malachite (velvet malachite)
• Associated minerals: Plancheite, shattuckite, calcite/quartz
• Weight: approx. 530 grams (a magnificent collector’s weight with strong visual presence)
• Condition: Untreated, roughly cleaned, and completely natural
• Origin: Namibia (Kaokoveld) / Democratic Republic of the Congo (Tantara)
• Shipping: Secure, padded express shipping