Afghanite - large crystal on Calcite
stock #23.1-031
Kiran, Koksha Valley, Khash and Kuran Wa Munjian Districts
Badakshan,
Afghanistan
6.1 x 4.7 x 4 CM (cabinet)
price: $920
Spring 23
A fine, large single crystal of intense blue Afghanite on contrasting matrix. The crystal is complete, well-terminated and 4.5 CM tall. This is worldwide a very rare mineral, only known from a handful of sites and the only crystals of such large size have come from the Badakshan deposits. Over the past two decades a very few finds of excellent Afghanites have raised he standard of quality for this specie. This is a very fine and attractive example of this remarkable mineral that is a first rate display quality piece. In undamaged condition, there are a few natural stress cracks to note that are typical in these larger crystals but are not damage or weakness. With some backlighting the crystal is very translucent and glows a rich blue color.