Lapis Lazuli, Sar-e-sang — Polished deep blue block (98 g)

Description

This polished Lapis Lazuli is a blocky specimen with a rich deep-blue body interrupted by broad pale grey–white banding. Scattered brassy metallic-looking flecks are visible across the smooth, polished faces; edges are rounded from the polishing. The piece measures 4.5 × 3.5 × 3 cm and weighs 98 g. Its faces have been smoothed and polished, emphasising the colour contrast between the deep blue and lighter banding while the rounded edges result from the lapidary finish. The overall form is compact and block-like. Lapis Lazuli is a rock dominated by the blue mineral lazurite and commonly contains lighter calcite and brassy pyrite-like inclusions; Sar-e-sang in Afghanistan is a well-known source for classic deep-blue material.