Phlogopite with Lazurite
specimen number:
2072165
location:
Kiran, Badakhshan, Afghanistan
description: The mineral deposits at the Kiran site in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, are technically categorized as metamorphic and metasomatic formations. Geologically, these world-famous deposits of lapis lazuli and associated minerals are hosted within thick sequences of Precambrian marble and skarn that have undergone intense regional metamorphism. The mineralization occurred when hydrothermal fluids reacted with magnesium-rich limestone and saline sedimentary layers, a process known as metasomatism, which allowed for the growth of large and distinct crystals. Historically, these mines represent some of the oldest active industrial sites in human history, with extraction of lapis lazuli at nearby Sar-e-Sang dating back over 6000 years to the Neolithic era.
Choice example for the species with lustrous translucent crystal grouping of phlogopite 3.0 cm in size across the top of matrix with blue lazurite. This is in good condition.
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