Chondrodite (rich red color) (ex Irv Brown Collection)

Item Description

Typically one will see oranges hues in Chondrodite, but the crystals from Afghanistan are notably RED and in my mind some of the finest examples of the species. The historic locality at Ladjuar Medam (where mining dates back at least 1,000 years) has been the source of the most well-known and finest quality Lazurite / Lapis in the world, but a little over 10 years ago these gorgeous Chondrodites were found and made a big splash on the market. This thumbnail specimens hosts a very good quality, well-formed, sharp, monoclinic crystal with a fine pyramidal termination measuring 1.3 cm on matrix. The color is an intense red hue with slight orange overtones when backlit. The termination is damage free, but I can see a small nick on the back edge to keep it from being 100% pristine. It's still incredibly aesthetic and fine quality for the species. From the worldwide thumbnail / miniature collection of Irv Brown. Valued at $ 800.