Grade A Lazurite on Calcite with Pyrite Sar e Sang Afghanistan Specimen

Genuine Grade A Lazurite on Calcite with Pyrite – Sar e Sang Mine, Badakhshan, Afghanistan

This Grade A Lazurite on Calcite with Pyrite natural crystal specimen originates from the legendary Sar e Sang mine in Badakhshan, Afghanistan. The photograph provided shows the exact specimen you will receive. Please refer to the images for full sizing and scale details.

This crystal includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card confirming its genuine identity and world-famous Afghan provenance.

---

Mineral Species & Scientific Composition

Lazurite is a feldspathoid mineral and the primary blue component of lapis lazuli. It crystallises in the isometric (cubic) crystal system and is responsible for the intense ultramarine colour associated with Sar e Sang material.

Primary Mineral: Lazurite
Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(SO₄,S,Cl)₂
Mineral Group: Feldspathoid
Crystal System: Isometric
Hardness: 5–5.5 Mohs
Lustre: Vitreous to dull

Associated Minerals:
Calcite – Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃), trigonal crystal system
Pyrite – Iron Sulphide (FeS₂), isometric crystal system

The rich blue colour of lazurite is caused by sulphur radicals within its crystal structure. Calcite appears as white to cream crystalline matrix, while pyrite forms brassy metallic cubic crystals or granular inclusions that create a striking gold contrast against the blue.

---

Geological Formation – Contact Metamorphic Marble Deposit

The Sar e Sang deposit formed within metamorphosed limestone (marble) during contact metamorphism. Igneous intrusions subjected the carbonate host rock to elevated temperatures and pressures, allowing sodium- and sulphur-rich fluids to react with the limestone.

Under these conditions:

• Limestone recrystallised into marble

• Lazurite formed within altered carbonate zones

• Pyrite crystallised from sulphur-rich fluids

• Calcite remained as a dominant matrix mineral

This geological setting is characteristic of classic Afghan lazurite and has made Sar e Sang one of the most historically significant gemstone and mineral localities in the world.

Mining at Sar e Sang dates back over six millennia, supplying material used in carvings, jewellery and the production of ultramarine pigment in ancient and Renaissance art.

---

Crystal Structure & Visual Characteristics

This Grade A specimen displays vivid lazurite crystals naturally embedded in calcite matrix with associated pyrite.

Key features may include:

• Deep ultramarine blue colour

• Natural crystalline lazurite masses

• White calcite veining or crystalline background

• Metallic gold-toned pyrite cubes or flecks

• Strong colour contrast and texture variation

The presence of visible pyrite enhances visual appeal and confirms classic Sar e Sang mineral association. Natural internal textures reflect metamorphic growth processes rather than artificial treatment.

This specimen is presented in its natural state with no implied enhancements.

---

Collectibility & Mineralogical Importance

Sar e Sang lazurite is among the most recognised blue mineral specimens in the world. Grade A examples are valued for:

• Intense natural colour

• Balanced calcite and pyrite association

• Documented historic locality

• Geological and cultural significance

Collectors appreciate these pieces for both mineralogical authenticity and their link to one of the oldest known mining operations on Earth.

Lazurite has been traditionally associated with wisdom and insight in various cultures in a spiritual sense, though this listing focuses solely on its geological and mineralogical qualities.

---

Authenticity & Presentation

This Lazurite on Calcite with Pyrite specimen has been carefully chosen for colour quality, mineral balance and classic Sar e Sang characteristics. The image shown is of the exact specimen you will receive.

Included with your purchase is a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card confirming this is a genuine specimen from the Sar e Sang mine, Badakhshan, Afghanistan.

A distinguished example of contact metamorphic mineral formation from one of the world’s most celebrated localities, this Grade A lazurite specimen combines vivid natural colour, classic mineral association and documented geological heritage in one exceptional collector’s piece.