1.8" Dioptase, Quartz and Fibrous Shattuckite Association

This is a colorful association of dioptase, quartz and fibrous shattuckite that was collected from Southern Africa. Some of the dioptase crystals are quite large and small pockets of quartz crystals can be found along the side of the specimen.

Dioptase is an uncommon mineral, found mostly in desert regions where it forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide mineral deposits. This copper-based mineral forms small rhombohedral crystals, typically less than 0.75 centimeters in length. It is popular with mineral collectors due to its vibrant color and it is occasionally cut into small emerald-like gems.

Shattuckite is a scarce copper mineral highly regarded for its vivid blue color. It is named after the Shattuck Mine in Bisbee, Arizona, where this mineral was first discovered. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic–dipyramidal crystal system and usually occurs in a granular massive form or as fibrous acicular crystals.

Quartz is the name given to silicon dioxide (SiO2) and is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's crust. Quartz crystals generally grow in silica-rich environments--usually igneous rocks or hydrothermal environments like geothermal waters--at temperatures between 100°C and 450°C, and usually under very high pressure. In either case, crystals will precipitate as temperatures cool, just as ice gradually forms when water freezes. Quartz veins are formed when open fissures are filled with hot water during the closing stages of mountain formation: these veins can be hundreds of millions of years old.

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DETAILS
SPECIES
Dioptase, Quartz & Shattuckite
LOCATION
Southern Africa
SIZE
1.8 x 1.5"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#175950