Dioptase
What is Dioptase?
Dioptase is a copper cyclosilicate mineral that is often found in Kazakhstan, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s primarily used as a gemstone and is popular for its deep green color.
Dioptase is a captivating gemstone that comes in shades of deep green. Its unique appearance and color make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items, especially beads and pendants.
| Chemical Classification | Inorganic - Silicate |
| Color | Deep green, often resembling emerald. |
| Streak | White |
| Luster | Vitreous. |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent. |
| Occurrence | Namibia, Kazakhstan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. |
| Formation | Typically found in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, often in association with malachite. |
| Diaphaneity | Translucent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Mohs Hardness | 5 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.28 - 3.35 |
| Diagnostic Properties | Intense green, vitreous luster. |
| Chemical Composition | CuSiO3·H2O |
| Pleochroism | Weak; green to bluish green. |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Optical Properties | Biaxial (+) |
| Refractive Index | 1.648 - 1.709 |
| Birefringence | 0.036 |
| 2V angle | Measured: 58° |
| Dispersion | Not typically noted for its dispersion. |