Diopside with Graphite

Crystallised Diopside moves into a much higher gear within the Merelani Hills mining district of north-eastern Tanzania, forming as magnificent crystals, frequently found with silvery-black Graphite.  This fabulous specimen consists of translucent, light apple-green Diopside crystals with a brilliant glassy lustre, the largest measuring 3.0 x 2.5 x 1.5 cm.  These sit on a matrix of metallic black Graphite mixed with angular fragments of pale green Diopside.   A delightful and excellent example of this species.