Amazonite (translucent!) with Smoky Quartz (rare locality)

Item Description

One of the very few Amazonite specimens I have seen from Afghanistan. I remember these specimens came out around 2008, and they are certainly interesting for what they are. Amazonite typically is not known as being "gem quality" material, but this piece would certainly be considered in that category. The crystal on this specimen is a very well-formed, sharp, Amazonite with a RICH blue-green color, but when the crystal is backlit, it shows amazing translucency for the material! Typically Amazonites are opaque, but these crystals from Afghanistan are some of the best "gem quality" examples of this Microcline variety that I've seen. To top it off, the Amazonite is sitting on contrasting, richly colored Smoky Quartz. A really attractive and excellent quality specimen (in terms of gemminess) that is rarely seen on the market these days. The Amazonite itself measures 2.7 cm, but please keep in mind that it is not terminated.