Lazurite pseudomorph after Phlogopite (ex David Burgess Collection)

Item Description

A notably SHARP and very well-formed, pseudomorph of deep royal blue Lazurite pseudomorphing hexagonal Phlogopite Mica sitting atop a contrasting white marble matrix. It should be noted that Lazurite is NO LONGER a species, and is now classified as a variety of Hauyne. This material was long defined as its own species, but reclassification has left this well known material as being discredited. With that said, this particular phenomenon of Lazurite replacing Mica is incredibly rare in nature, and I've only seen a handful of these particular specimens from this Sar-e-Sang. This piece was originally labeled as a "Lapis" specimen, as this material is one of the components for Lapis Lazuli that is typically used for cabochons and carving in its massive form. The mica was originally labeled as Muscovite, but no confirmed specimens of Muscovite have been found at this locality. Rarely are such sharp crystals like this found, and the majority of them tend to be rather lumpy, and rounded with a somewhat "melted" look. The main pseudomorph on the top of this piece measures 1.8 x 1.3 cm across For the quality, size and overall aesthetics, this is certainly a worthwhile specimen from this most historic of localities. Virtually undamaged, and great quality. Valued at $1,000. From the worldwide collection of David Burgess (1951-2016). David was a prolific species collector from Newington, Connecticut, and the namesake for the extremely rare cobalt arsenate species Burgessite, which he discovered.