Premium Afghan Lapis Lazuli Sphere with Pyrite...

Royal Blue Natural Coloured Sphere with Pyrite and Calcite inclusions — This specimen features a notably large and well-crafted lapis lazuli sphere, the result of processing an metamorphic aggregate predominantly composed of lazurite, associated with calcite, pyrite, and other minor silicates. Its geological formation is typical of contact metamorphic deposits, where carbonate rocks have been altered by sulfur-, iron-, and aluminum-rich hydrothermal fluids, responsible for the genesis of lazurite and the other associated minerals. Visual analysis reveals an intense, deep royal blue color, with areas reaching the characteristic 'royal blue'. The matrix is intersected by white calcite veins, creating a distinctive color contrast and natural patterns on the glossy surface. The golden pyrite inclusions, finely dispersed and sometimes aggregated into small streaks, add a brilliant sparkle, giving the specimen superior aesthetic quality and enhancing its natural character. The provenance of this magnificent lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, specifically the famous Sar-e-Sang mines in Badakhshan Province. This region is historically recognized as the oldest and most prestigious source of lapis lazuli in the world, with mining dating back over 6,000 years. The extreme geological conditions of this mountainous area favored the formation of exceptionally high-quality lapis lazuli with rich color purity, making Afghan specimens among the most sought after by collectors. The aesthetic quality of this sphere is particularly high, thanks to skilled polishing that enhances the color vividness and the luster of the pyrite, making each calcite vein a decorative element rather than a flaw. The perfect spherical shape has been achieved with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring impeccable symmetry and a smooth, glossy surface free of significant imperfections that could compromise its value. The piece is presented in excellent condition, with no evident alterations or surface damage. Its robustness and intrinsic hardness (5–6 on the Mohs scale) guarantee durability over time. This piece does not require complex supports and is ready to be displayed as a centerpiece of a mineral collection or as a refined decorative object, ideal for those who appreciate the intrinsic beauty of natural gems. The collectible value of a lapis lazuli sphere of this size and quality, originating from Afghanistan, is considerable. Specimens of this caliber, combining a deep color, well-distributed pyrite inclusions, and balanced calcite veining, are sought after by enthusiasts and investors. It stands out from smaller specimens for its substantial presence and the richness of mineralogical details, making it a unique and highly prized piece in the realm of ornamental mineralogy."} } } } } } } } } } } } } } } }} } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } } }

Estimate:£355.97

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