Dioptase is a relatively rare vivid green mineral and is a copper silicate that is admired by mineral lovers and collectors alike.
Its chemical formula is (CuSiO₃ · H₂O) and it is created by the oxidation of copper deposits, found in cavities within limestone or other sedimentary rocks.
Its bright emerald green colour is a result of its distinct crystal structure and composition, featuring hexagonal crystals that can reach lengths of several centimetres. This colour not only adds to its beauty but also shows its significant copper content.
Dioptase crystals are usually found in small, well-formed prisms or as clusters on matrix rock. These can be quite delicate and are sought after by collectors, some of the finest specimens come from Tsumeb in Namibia. Dioptase was given its name in 1797, derived from the Greek words Dia, meaning “through,” and Optasia, meaning “to see.” This name reflects the mineral’s unique property of being able to see internal cleavage planes within its transparent to translucent crystals.
Dioptase has a hardness of around 5 on the Mohs scale, which means that it is a relatively soft mineral, very often being cut and polished into small gems for jewellery making. I’m not often a fan of the colour green but for a few things we make an exception these include, Dioptase, Malachite, Vivianite and Moldavite!!!