Extra Quality Afghan Lapislazzuli Slice - Natural Royal...

A refined, freely formed, polished piece, rich with golden inclusions — A magnificent example of lapis lazuli in a freely formed, polished state, coming from the historic mines of Afghanistan. This piece, of notable size and weighing over a kilogram, immediately captures attention with its intense, deep blue coloration, reminiscent of the most precious pigments in art history. The surface, masterfully worked, offers a sculptural and modern aesthetic, making it a highly impactful visual object. Observing the specimen in detail, one appreciates the superb polish that enhances every chromatic nuance and creates a surface that is almost glassy, smooth to the touch. The dominant color is a royal, deep, saturated blue—the quintessential high-quality lapis lazuli. On this cobalt-blue backdrop unfolds a fine, sparkling dispersion of pyrite. These golden specks and aggregates, like stardust, create the iconic effect of a “starry night sky.” The mineralogical scenery is completed by white and grayish Calcite veins and patches that traverse the surface like luminous brushstrokes, adding dynamism and bearing witness to the authenticity and complex genesis of the rock. Lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a metamorphic rock composed of several minerals. Its unmistakable color is mainly due to the presence of lazurite, a complex silicate. It forms through contact metamorphism, typically in crystalline limestones following a magmatic intrusion. The Badakhshan province mines in Afghanistan, active for over 6,000 years, are the oldest and most famous source in the world for this material, and specimens from this region are considered the benchmark for quality. This piece embodies the typical characteristics of that prestigious provenance. Few stones possess such a rich and fascinating history. Since ancient times, lapis lazuli has been regarded as a gem of great value, a symbol of royalty, wisdom, and power. The ancient Egyptians used it extensively for jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects, as demonstrated by Tutankhamun’s famous funerary mask. During the Renaissance, lapis powder was ground to produce the ultramarine pigment, the most expensive and sought-after by great painters. Owning a specimen like this means safeguarding a fragment of geological and human history. With its organic form and impeccable finish, this lapis lazuli qualifies as much as a fine mineralogical collector’s piece as it does as a sophisticated design element. It is an ideal object to enrich a contemporary Wunderkammer, a library, or a study, where its sculptural presence and vibrant color can be admired. Its generous size and timeless aesthetics make it a focal point in any setting, capable of dialogue with both classic and modern furnishings.

Estimate:£317.31

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