Dioptase

Dioptase is an extremely rare Copper cyclosilicate mineral that crystallizes in small prismatic shards, as well as inclusions within Quartz. This mineral occurs around other copper bearing minerals such as Chrysocolla, Malachite and Shattuckite. It forms on copper veins that have been exposed to extensive oxidation. The color can range from a deep emerald green to a lighter green that can resemble a slight blue hue. Dioptase is one of the rarest stones on the market and has only a few known localities in the entire world.

Dioptase is formed through hydrothermal processes, typically occurring in copper-rich environments. It is commonly found in oxidized copper deposits, especially in association with minerals such as malachite, azurite, and chrysocolla. Notable deposits of dioptase can be found in various parts of the world, including Kazakhstan, Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States, and Chile. Dioptase was first discovered in the late 1700’s by copper miners in Kazakhstan. They believed it to be a massive vein of Emerald and sent specimens to Moscow, Russia for testing.

It turned out to be an unknown mineral and was deemed invaluable. Dioptase is sensitive to heat and light exposure, as prolonged exposure to these factors can cause its color to fade or change. Care should be taken to protect dioptase specimens from excessive heat and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.