Dioptase · Thumbnail Specimen

Deep green Dioptase crystals form a compact, uneven cluster with several larger crystals rising above a finer intergrowth. The principal face has a rounded outline, broken by projecting angular crystals and small recesses. Bright emerald edges contrast with the darker centres, giving the piece depth within its small natural form.

The Dioptase displays a glassy lustre. Broad faces produce clear reflections, while neighbouring surfaces show finer steps and a more textured finish. Several crystals retain distinct outlines within the close intergrowth, allowing their different orientations to be followed across the cluster.

The side views reveal the relative prominence of the larger crystals. One broad crystal dominates part of the group, with smaller crystals arranged around its base and along the upper edge. These changes in crystal size and angle create an irregular silhouette rather than a uniformly covered surface.

The reverse photograph shows less reflective green surfaces with patches of pale supporting material. This gives a useful comparison with the main display face and records the natural variation across the specimen. No additional mineral identification is assigned to the pale material.

The five photographs show the exact specimen, including close views of the crystal faces, a reverse view and its overall presentation. They allow the lustre, intergrown structure and distribution of larger crystals to be assessed from several directions.