Dioptase from Namibia (1)
The Discovery of Dioptase
In 1785, a merchant discovered dioptase crystals in an intense green color in the Kazakh steppe. Based on this discovery, the Russian Tsarina Catherine II had a German mineralogist named Rudolph Ferber examine the mineral more closely. However, he came to the false conclusion that it was a variety of emerald .
An unpolished dioptase (2)
identification as dioptase
It was not until 1797 that the French mineral researcher René gave dioptase its current name and recognized it as an independent mineral. Dioptase comes from two Greek terms, dia and optanomai, and can be roughly translated as "transparency". The reason for this is the transparency of this mineral.
(1) Image source: Wikipedia, Author: Rob Lavinsky, iRocks.com - CC-BY-Sa-3.0(2) Image source: Wikipedia, Author: Reinhard Kraasch
Dioptase – unsuitable for processing into jewelry
Dioptase differs significantly from emeralds in its material properties. It has a lower Mohs hardness , which is why it was once called the emerald for the poor . Because of its brittleness, it is difficult to work with and is almost never used in jewelry. However, it is assumed that it was once incorporated into necklaces or rings instead of real emeralds.
Collectors appreciate the beautiful appearance of dioptase in its raw state – occasionally it is also faceted or cut into the shape of a cabochon .
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