Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108103612" class="extiw" title="d:Q108103612"><span title="Wikipedian and OpenStreetMap mapper from Cologne, Open Data activist">Raimond Spekking</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
trigonaluncommonSilicates
Dioptase
CuSiO₃·H₂O
This specimen features a cluster of vibrant emerald-green, well-formed dioptase crystals, typically prismatic with distinct terminations, often growing on a matrix.
Dioptase Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
5Crystal System
trigonalLuster
vitreousStreak Color
greenCleavage
perfect on {1011}Fracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
3.3Colors
emerald-green, dark green, bluish-greenTransparency
transparentType Locality
Reneville, KongoMineral Group
SilicatesUses
collector, jewelry (minor)Associated Minerals
chrysocolla, malachite, azurite, calcite, quartzRarity
uncommonGeological Context
Dioptase is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of copper sulfide deposits, particularly in arid climates. It results from the alteration of primary copper minerals.
