{"title":"Congo (DRC)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Democratic Republic of the Congo is world-renowned for dioptase, malachite, chrysocolla, and other copper-rich minerals. Specimens from the Katanga region are celebrated for intense color, sharp crystal form, and striking contrast. This collection features hand-selected Congo minerals chosen for display impact and collector quality.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"52g-dioptase-on-calcite-specimen-mindouli-republic-of-the-congo-70mm","title":"52 g Dioptase on Calcite Specimen – Mindouli, Republic of the Congo – 70 mm","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"529\" data-end=\"844\"\u003eThis dioptase specimen from the Mindouli District in the Republic of the Congo displays intense teal-green crystals sharply contrasted against sparkling white calcite druses. Copper-rich dioptase prisms rise in well-defined crystal form, their gemlike luster glowing with rich internal saturation across the matrix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"1167\"\u003eAs the specimen shifts under light, the calcite scatters soft reflections that enhance the depth and brilliance of the dioptase beneath. The vivid green and crisp white pairing creates a dynamic three-dimensional visual balance, with each viewing angle revealing new textures and reflective highlights across the surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1247\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1180\"\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 52 g (1.83 oz)\u003cbr data-start=\"1195\" data-end=\"1198\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1207\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 70 × 45 × 25 mm (2.76 × 1.77 × 0.98 in)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1249\" data-end=\"1448\"\u003eA meaningful addition for collectors who value Central African dioptase for its exceptional color saturation, sharp crystal definition, and the elegant visual contrast created by calcite association.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opal \u0026 Emerald Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47404883017983,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0676\/9292\/1087\/files\/74d4c20f-77cf-4e27-b3f7-c0bf420200e9.jpg?v=1761268672"},{"product_id":"malachite-cat-carving-congo-140g","title":"140 g Green Malachite Cat Carving – Congo – 68 mm","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"335\" data-end=\"758\"\u003eThis Malachite cat carving carries the deep emerald and forest-green intensity that defines fine Congolese malachite. Flowing bands of saturated green sweep across the surface like liquid velvet, forming rhythmic curves that feel almost alive beneath the polish. The seated feline shape emerges naturally from the stone, with perked ears, rounded contours, and a poised posture that enhances the mineral’s organic movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"760\" data-end=\"1145\"\u003eAs the carving turns in the light, darker bands tighten into crisp arcs while lighter green zones soften into fluid gradients. The glossy polish amplifies malachite’s hypnotic patterning, drawing the eye through layers of motion that feel sculptural rather than flat. The contrast between the disciplined cat form and malachite’s untamed internal flow creates a dynamic visual balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1147\" data-end=\"1226\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1147\" data-end=\"1158\"\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 140 g (4.94 oz)\u003cbr data-start=\"1174\" data-end=\"1177\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1177\" data-end=\"1186\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 68 × 47 × 28 mm (2.68 × 1.85 × 1.10 in)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1462\"\u003eA refined sculptural mineral selected for collectors who appreciate bold banding, fluid color movement, and the fusion of natural pattern with polished form. This piece brings both presence and rhythm into any curated mineral display.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opal \u0026 Emerald Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47578346848511,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0676\/9292\/1087\/files\/723c9fc2-fb54-4013-aa6d-8dde56b258e0.jpg?v=1767381322"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0676\/9292\/1087\/collections\/723c9fc2-fb54-4013-aa6d-8dde56b258e0.jpg?v=1765247396","url":"https:\/\/opalandemerald.com\/collections\/congo-drc.oembed","provider":"Opal \u0026 Emerald Co.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}