noun
- A bright green or blue-green mineral composed of hydrated copper silicate, valued by collectors and used in jewelry.
Usage: mineralogy; geology
Examples
- The museum's mineral collection featured a stunning specimen of dioptase from Namibia.
- Dioptase crystals are prized by gem collectors for their vivid emerald-green color.
- The geologist identified the copper-rich deposit as dioptase based on its crystal structure.
- Jewelry makers sometimes use polished dioptase as a semi-precious stone in pendants and rings.
- Dioptase forms in the oxidized zones of copper ore deposits in arid climates.