Extra Quality Afghan Lapislazzuli Slice - Natural Royal...

Polished, richly embedded in a precious freeform, this is a magnificent example of Lapis Lazuli in a freeform polished presentation, sourced from the historic mines of Afghanistan. This piece, of remarkable size and weight over a kilogram, immediately captivates with its intense, deep blue coloration that evokes the most precious pigments in art history. The surface, expertly worked, offers a sculptural and modern aesthetic, making it a visually striking object. Examining 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 quintessence of 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 tableau is completed by veins and areas of white and grayish Calcite, crossing the surface like luminous brushstrokes, adding dynamism and testifying 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 due mainly to the presence of Lazurite, a complex silicate. Its formation occurs through a contact metamorphism process, typically in crystalline limestones following a magmatic intrusion. The mines of Badakhshan Province 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 such prestigious provenance. Few stones have as rich and fascinating a history. Since antiquity, 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 funeral mask. During the Renaissance, lapis lazuli powder was ground to produce the pigment “ultramarine,” the most expensive and sought-after by the great masters of painting. Owning a specimen like this means safeguarding a fragment of geological and human history. With its organic form and flawless finish, this Lapis Lazuli qualifies as much as a fine mineralogical collectible 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 environment, capable of dialoguing with both classic and modern furnishings.

Estimate:$504.09

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