Hauyne (var: Lazurite)

Item Description

PLEASE NOTE: Despite the fact that Lazurite was a species for a long time, it is NO LONGER a valid species, and the material is now classified as a variety of Hauyne (specifically a sulfide-rich variety). With that said, it is incredibly difficult to find large, attractive, isolated crystals such as this on matrix. When it comes to "Lazurite", the finest quality and most well-known examples are those from Afghanistan. This material has been known for thousands of years, and is the blue part of the stone Lapis Lazuli. Typically crystals of "Lazurite" are not much more than a couple centimeters, and they are often rather distorted, rarely showing good crystal form. This particular specimen features crystals measuring up to 4 cm across, which is impressive for the species. Additionally, the crystals are for the most part, rather sharp and distinct, and not rounded amorphous "blobs", which we often seen in larger "Lazurite" examples. The combination of the excellent euhedral dodecahedral form along with the overall color, quality and size makes this an important and striking "Lazurite" specimen. The crystals on this specimen have that classic deep royal navy blue hue associated with the material. The faces are not at all "frosted" nor are they distorted, though one of the crystals has a unique "split" down the middle caused by tectonic activity when the piece was still in the ground. The matrix is typical white marble, and if you look closely, you'll see small groups of soft golden colored Phlogopite Mica scattered about. This is a very good example of the material as you just don't see cabinet sized display specimens like this with so many good quality crystals on it very often. A really attractive and impressive matrix example of this classic and fine quality material from Afghanistan. Valued at $4,500 for the impressive size and quality.