Dioptase on Calcite

An outstanding large thumbnail specimen composed of two big intergrown Dioptase crystals on a mini-dome of 2 to 3 mm creamy white Calcite crystals.  Despite its size, this specimen packs a lot of punch as both crystals measure close to 1.2 cm along each face edge, making them large for the species and appearing very large on this small yet perfect matrix.  The Calcite crystals form a complete ring around the base of the Dioptase, so displaying the crystals beautifully and adding great contrast.  Characteristically the Dioptase crystals are deep emerald green and grade between translucent and opaque more towards their centres.  Throughout the translucent outer zones, patches within the crystal structure emit brilliant light emerald green in transmitted light.