Exceptional Natural Dioptase Statement Ring – 925 Sterling Silver – 14.1 g A striking and highly unusual statement ring featuring a large natural Dioptase specimen, set in solid 925 sterling silver. The centrepiece is a spectacular natural Dioptase, displaying the mineral's characteristic intense emerald-green colour and brilliant vitreous/crystalline lustre. Rather than being conventionally cut and polished, the stone retains its natural crystalline character, with the vivid green Dioptase contrasting beautifully against its pale mineral matrix. Dioptase is a fascinating copper silicate mineral prized by mineral collectors for its exceptionally saturated green colour, which can resemble fine emerald. It is relatively uncommon in jewellery because the mineral is comparatively soft (approximately Mohs 5) and has perfect cleavage, making larger natural crystals susceptible to damage. This is one reason natural Dioptase is more commonly encountered as a collector's mineral specimen than as a large jewellery stone. International Gem Society The stone has been mounted in a substantial 925 sterling silver setting, with an attractive handcrafted appearance and decorative silver detailing around the specimen. The combination of the substantial silver mounting and large natural mineral gives the ring a dramatic, sculptural character. Details: - Mineral: Natural Dioptase - Form: Natural crystalline specimen / matrix - Metal: 925 Sterling Silver - Total weight: 14.1 g - Style: Statement / collector's jewellery - Condition: Very good vintage/used condition; please examine photographs carefully as they form part of the description - Treatment: No treatment is claimed; the stone is presented in its natural crystalline form - Unique piece: Yes A particularly collectible feature Fine Dioptase is valued for its extraordinarily vivid green colour and brilliant crystal faces. The International Gem Society notes that larger clean gem material is uncommon and that Dioptase is frequently used in raw/freeform jewellery rather than conventional faceted gems. International Gem Society This makes the present ring especially appealing to both mineral collectors and lovers of unusual statement jewellery. The photographs show the actual ring offered in this auction.