Lapis Lazuli (polished) — Sar-e-sang, Afghanistan, 57 g

Description

This polished lapis lazuli presents vivid royal-blue areas across a mostly flat, angular face, with scattered darker mottling and a few small metallic-looking flecks. The surface is smooth with a slight gloss from polishing and is shown held between fingers. The piece measures 3.8 × 3.5 × 2.0 cm and weighs 57 g. It is a compact, palm-sized example of the material from Sar-e-sang, Afghanistan, where the specimen originates. The polish emphasises the deep blue colour and the contrast provided by the darker patches and metallic-looking points. Lapis lazuli is a rock dominated by the blue mineral lazurite and commonly includes other components that produce dark mottling and metallic flecks; this description is offered as general context rather than a claim about specific included minerals in this specimen.