Dioptase
An example of the translucent qualities of Dioptase.
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Dioptase is named for the Greek terms dia mesou and the term optasia, which have the meaning of ‘through; and of ‘vision’ respectively in reference to the visibility of internal cleavage planes within the structure of the crystals.
The mineral is sourced from a variety of regions around the world, including Kazakhstan and Namibia, which has itself produced among the finest examples of this mineral. Within the confines of Africa, Dioptase is located in mines within the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo. Further locations of the mineral include Argentina and the United States Dioptase is prized by collectors for its highly visual qualities. It is often cut into small, emerald like gems and like many other minerals, can be ground and utilised as pigmentation for the production of artwork. |
