Dioptase

3D ModelNoAI

Dioptase, with the chemical formula CuSiO₃·H₂O, is a rare copper silicate mineral. It is best known for its intense emerald-green color and exceptional transparency, which can sometimes resemble emerald. Dioptase crystallizes in the trigonal system and commonly forms well-shaped prismatic crystals in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It has a Mohs hardness of about 5 and a vitreous (glassy) luster. Despite its beauty, it is relatively brittle and must be handled carefully. The mineral is highly valued by collectors for its brilliant color and crystal quality, and it typically occurs alongside other secondary copper minerals such as malachite and chrysocolla.

This mineral comes from Tsumeb Mine (Ongopolo Mine), Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia.

This 3D model was realized by Clarissa Bignoli and Erika Del Bene during the Universal Civil Service (SCU) at UniGe.