Afghanite (large crystal) on matrix

Ladjuar Medam, (Lapis-lazuli Mine), Sar-e Sang, Koksha Valley, Khash & Kuran Wa Munjan Districts, Badakhshan, Afghanistan (Type Locality)
Small Cabinet, 5.6 x 4.4 x 3.1 cm
Start Time: 02/07/2019 6:30:00 pm (CST)
End Time: 02/19/2019 6:30:00 pm (CST)
Auction Closed

Item Description

This complex alumosilicate is one of the more obscure members of the Cancrinite group, especially in fine quality specimens. Typcially Afghanite crystals, no matter how saturated the color may be, are opaque. This specimen hosts a beautiful, sharp, lustrous, well-formed, prismatic crystal of Afghanite measuring a whopping 4.0 cm jutting out of massive white Calcite matrix. A great display specimen of a species that is only found in good sized specimens from one part of the world. No damage, save the base of the piece where it was removed from the pocket wall. VERY showy and attractive for the species and hard to replace on the market these days. Valued at $3,500 in the inventory for size of the crystal, quality and rarity.

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