Dioptase xls; Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia; Ilse Baer collection; TN; unique piece
Dioptase crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia, Ilse Baer collection – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen with Dioptase crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia, originates from the Ilse Baer collection. The intensely emerald green Dioptase crystals are attractively positioned on a light colored matrix and display sharply defined crystal forms with strong vitreous luster. The individual crystals appear transparent to translucent and form a dense, aesthetically striking group with vivid color impact.
The combination of bright green color, well developed crystal morphology and the typical Tsumeb contrast against the pale matrix gives this micromount an exceptional presence despite its small size.
Geology & Origin
Dioptase is a copper bearing silicate that forms secondarily in the oxidation zone of copper rich deposits. The Tsumeb Mine is world famous for exceptionally well formed Dioptase crystals of intense color and clarity. The complex polymetallic deposit favored the formation of numerous secondary minerals under varying geochemical conditions.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
| Sizes | Description | approx. Sizes in mm/cm | approx. Sizes in INCH | |
| Capsule | Capsule | 0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm) | capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm | capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in |
| TN/mm | Micromount (TN = Thumbnail) | everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in | approx. 0.5–2.5 cm | max. 1 in |
| Min | Miniature specimen | will not fit a TN or MM box anymore | approx. 2.5–5 cm | approx. 0.2–1.0 in |
| Scab | small cabinet specimen | approx. one-third to half a hand size | approx. 5–9 cm | approx. 1.0–2.0 in |
| Cab | cabinet specimen | full hand size | approx. 9–15 cm | approx. 2.0–3.5 in |
| large Cab | large cabinet specimen | approx. two hand sizes | approx. 15–30 cm | approx. 3.5–6.0 in |
| very large Cab | very large cabinet specimen | everything larger, no upper limit |
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embedded or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH
Steinslieth 11
D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
Email: info@mikon-online.com
| shipment-weight, NOT netto weight (kg) | 0.050000 |
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