Lapis Lazuli polished nodule — Sar-e-sang, 109 g

Description

This is a small, polished lapis lazuli nodule showing a steady deep-blue ground with lighter blue mottling and silvery-white veining across smooth faces. The piece is opaque and has a blocky, rectangular shape with gently rounded edges from polishing. Measuring 5.3 × 3 × 2 cm and weighing 109 g, the nodule fits comfortably in the hand. The surface shows grainy patches in places and the polish emphasises the contrast between the deep blue areas and the paler mottling and vein-like lighter material. Lapis lazuli is a rock dominated by the blue mineral lazurite, commonly with lighter and metallic components; Sar-e-sang in Afghanistan is a recognised source of lapis-type material. This description focuses on the visible appearance and physical dimensions of the actual specimen.