Congolese Dioptase

[stales]

Hi Guys

 

I've not posted here since winding back on mineral collecting in 2008 and confess that I'd forgotten all about this group.

 

This week's request for back issues of the AJM was very timely because last weekend I noted that there are dioptase specimens for sale at the local market where I live in Lusaka, Zambia.  I'd been wondering whether they were worth acquiring as I'd not seen this habit before, dark crystals on a massive, dark matrix.  Of course the vendors are being very coy and will not reveal which mine it came from. 

 

So I was wondering if there have been some dioptase finds over the past year or two from the DR Congo?   And if they are sought by collectors?  At what sort of price?  Does anyone have any photos or links I could peruse for reference? 

 

All the best

 

Roger