Hauyne (var Lazurite)

Item Description

A pretty sharp and well-formed, dodecahedron of deep royal blue Lazurite sits atop a contrasting white marble matrix. It should be noted that Lazurite is probably no longer going to be a species, according to Tom Moore and Rob Woodside (see Mineralogical Record 45 #3: 281-336), all of Lazurite that has been analyzed turns out to be a sulfide rich variety of Hauyne. This material was long defined as its own species, but reclassification is needed and this well known material will probably be discredited. With that said, good crystals are very difficult to find and is typically used for cabochons and carving in its massive form (it's one of the components of Lapis Lazuli). Rarely are sharp crystals found, and the majority of them tend to be rather lumpy, and rounded with a somewhat "melted" look. The main crystal on this specimen measures 3.2 cm across, and is accompanied by a few smaller accessory crystals with Pyrite on marble matrix. For the quality, size of the main crystal and overall aesthetics, this is certainly a worthwhile Lazurite from this most historic of localities. Virtually undamaged (one small contact on the side / back), and good quality for the material. Valued at $800.