Origin: Notably - Namibia, DR of Congo, Czech Republic
Mineral Species: Dioptase
Mineral Group: Silicates - cyclosilicates
Chemical Formula: Cu6(Si6O18).6H2O
Hardness: 5
Crystal System: Hexagonal / trigonal
Colour: Bright green (emerald) to blue-green
Typical Appearance: Bright emerald-green modified rhombohedral crystals, usually only a few mm in size, either individual or forming a 'druse' over the host matrix. Ocasionally up to 5mm, rarely over 10mm.
Birthstone: Sagittarius and Scorpio
Chakra Alignment: Heart and Upper Heart Chakras
Element: None
Origin of Name & Mythology: Named in 1797 by Hauy from the Greek for "through" and "to see" in allusion to the visibility of internal cleavage planes.
Dioptase is extraordinarily bright green in colour, and it is often mistaken for emerald. Just the sight of it can lift the spirits, making it an excellent antidepressant. It is balancing, detoxifying, and stimulates the immune system, encouraging us to embrace health fully and continue to heal. It can alleviate headache and nausea, and can be an aid in pain relief.
Dioptase balances and aligns the Chakras, and can help disparate energies to coalesce and work in harmony with one another. Spiritually, it clears and opens both the Heart and Upper Heart Chakras, and allows us to feel love and compassion on the highest level, even for our enemies. Dioptase's message is so powerful, that it can stimulate the heart from a distance, for example, when placed on an altar.
Specimens with good crystal clarity are weakly pleochroic (a slight colour change occurs, depending on whether it is viewed in natural or artificial light). This symbolises the inter-dimensional quality of Dioptase, allowing us to work on a higher level while remaining in contact with our physical selves.
