Hauyne (var: Lazurite) (excellent sharp crystal)

Item Description

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 a very sharp crystal for the size. The combination of the excellent euhedral form along with the fact that the overall color, quality and size makes this an important and striking "Lazurite" specimen. The crystal measures 3.3 x cm at its longest dimension and not only shows textbook, well-formed, dodecahedral faces, but it has that classic deep royal navy blue hue that associated with the material. The faces are not distorted, they're smooth and distinct. There is a even a gentle luster than can be seen on the surface, which is rare, as most will often have a dull matte luster when they reach this size. The piece is not repaired, and the Lazurite crystal is undamaged, though it does have an area of incomplete growth at the base where it attaches to the white marble matrix, creating the gorgeous contrast against the blue "Lazurite". PLEASE NOTE: Despite the fact that Lazurite was a species for a long time, it is NO LONGER valid, and the material is now classified as a variety of Hauyne (specifically a sulfide-rich variety).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. An outstanding matrix example of this classic and fine quality material from Afghanistan. Valued at $3,500 for the impressive size and quality.