Lapis Lazuli — Polished royal-blue block, Sar-e-sang (72 g)

Description

This polished lapis lazuli presents a vivid royal-blue body with irregular dark mottling and patchy banding, plus scattered pale white specks across a smooth, opaque surface. The piece has an overall angular, block-like shape and a consistent polish that highlights the colour contrasts. Measuring 5.0 × 3.7 × 3.5 cm and weighing 72 g, the specimen is compact and hand-sized. The finish is uniformly smooth and the polish accentuates the banding and mottled areas without affecting the stone’s opaque character. Origin: Sar-e-sang, Afghanistan. Lapis lazuli is a rock dominated by the blue mineral lazurite and commonly contains lighter calcite and darker accessory minerals; such internal contrasts are typical for material from classic Afghan sources.