Afghanite (rare and excellent)

Item Description

Afghanite is RARELY found in material that is worthy of cutting into gemstones. This a rare tektosilicate is species has been found known from a handful of localities around the world, but honestly the only pieces of note, (including GEM material) are from the type locality in Afghanistan. The material from Ladjuar Medam forms in the same area where the famous Lazurite has been mined for centuries. Afghanite is found in dark blue and white crystals, which are typically opaque or barely translucent, but recently (2018) a discovery was made of superb quality GEM material. This stone is one of the better examples of faceted gem grade Afghanite that we've had to offer. It has an "Oval Step" cut with very very slight inclusions, but the most intriguing part is that it shows a rarely seen glowing sky blue color that is not often associated with Afghanite. Most Afghanites are a darker blue and typically much more opaque, so this gem is a big deal in terms of the fantastic color and quality. This piece along with several others from the recent mining efforts have been analyzed and confirmed as Afghanite by several laboratories around the world. If you collect rarities, this is a great opportunity to not only pick up something that's rare, but also incredibly beautiful and colorful. One rarely sees Afghanite stones on the market these, and considering there is only one locality for gem material in the world, you won't see it forever. Priced at $180.00 retail.