**Complimentary Specimens** As a gesture of appreciation, every winning lot above €50 will include one extra mineral, added entirely free of charge. For each additional €50, another complimentary specimen will be added. —————— Description: Rising from the rugged mineral landscapes of northeastern Afghanistan, this exceptional chromium diopside specimen presents a vivid and electrifying green rarely encountered in natural crystal form. Its intense chromatic presence appears almost illuminated from within, a direct expression of chromium enrichment that gives this mineral its unmistakable neon vitality. Under neutral daylight, the crystal reveals a living green that shifts between fresh spring tones and deeper forest hues, maintaining remarkable saturation throughout the body. The crystal architecture is powerful and sculptural, defined by sharp natural faces and angular geometry that speak clearly of uninterrupted growth. Internal veils and growth structures create a dynamic interplay of light, producing depth, movement and a tactile visual richness that elevates the specimen beyond simple colour alone. The surface exhibits a naturally bright vitreous lustre, enhanced by crisp edges and reflective planes that respond beautifully to directional lighting. Despite its compact size, this piece carries the presence of a true specimen. Its balance of mass, colour intensity, translucency and structural definition places it firmly within museum grade territory. The crystal feels substantial in hand, with a visual gravity that immediately draws the eye and rewards close inspection from every angle. Originating from the Kokcha Valley in Badakhshan Province, one of Afghanistan’s most legendary mineral regions, this chromium diopside reflects the geological pedigree of its source. Such material is seldom encountered in well formed individual crystals, and specimens combining this degree of colour purity with strong crystalline form are increasingly scarce on the market. This is a piece that bridges the worlds of fine mineral collecting and high potential gem rough, offering both aesthetic authority and technical significance. Specifications: • Weight: 2.50 g • Weight in carats: 12.50 ct • Dimensions: 19 × 15 × 6 mm Origin: Kokcha Valley, Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan • Mineral species: Diopside • Variety: Chromium Diopside • Crystal system: Monoclinic • Colour: Intense electric green • Transparency: Translucent • Lustre: Vitreous • Crystal form: Individual natural crystal • Condition: Natural, unpolished, untreated Notable Points: • Museum grade chromium diopside specimen • Exceptionally vivid electric green colour driven by chromium content • Strong natural crystal geometry with sharp, well defined faces • High vitreous lustre enhancing visual impact under light • Excellent translucency for the species • Distinct internal growth features adding depth and character • Rare Afghan origin from the renowned Kokcha Valley • Large size for chromium diopside in crystal form • Strong visual presence despite compact dimensions • Untreated and completely natural condition Collector’s Interest: This specimen holds strong appeal for advanced mineral collectors seeking rare chromium bearing species with uncompromised colour intensity. Afghan chromium diopside is seldom available in well formed crystals, and pieces of this quality are particularly desirable due to their scarcity and aesthetic strength. The combination of provenance, colour purity and crystal definition makes this an excellent candidate for high level private collections and institutional displays alike. Lapidary Interest: Beyond its collectible value, this chromium diopside presents significant lapidary potential. The intense saturation, internal translucency and substantial mass allow for the possibility of extracting a highly vibrant gemstone with exceptional colour performance. While chromium diopside is rarely encountered in rough of this quality, this specimen offers rare opportunities for selective cutting, making it equally compelling to skilled lapidaries seeking material with both beauty and technical promise. ——————— Photography and transparency: All photos were taken under controlled light conditions, carefully selected to reproduce the most accurate natural colour of each specimen. No filters, colour enhancement, or artificial saturation were applied. The lighting setup uses a calibrated 5500K light source, which replicates neutral daylight and reveals the true tones and clarity of the mineral. Under weaker or more yellow indoor lighting, colours may appear slightly different, which is normal and expected. The purpose of this setup is to present each specimen exactly as it appears in balanced natural daylight, allowing buyers to appreciate its authentic colour and lustre without distortion. Identification and ethics: All specimens offered are guaranteed natural and as described. Their origin and mineral identification are provided with the most accurate and reliable information available. Every effort is made to ensure that each piece is presented with full transparency, avoiding any misleading details regarding its nature, treatment, or provenance. Shipping and handling: Orders are carefully prepared, with each stone individually protected and placed in a secure rigid box to ensure safe delivery. Shipments are made within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation, always with a tracking number provided to the buyer. Each order is handled with professional care from selection to dispatch, ensuring a smooth and trustworthy process. Customs and import taxes: Any customs duties, import fees, or local taxes applied by the destination country are entirely the responsibility of the winning bidder. These charges are not included in the auction price or shipping cost and are determined by the buyer’s local authorities. Guarantee and resolution: Customer satisfaction is a priority. In the event of any issue, such as loss, damage, or discrepancy, please contact us immediately through Catawiki’s messaging system. We will always find a fair and suitable solution, including refund, replacement, or other commercial arrangements whenever justified. Appreciation and commitment: We sincerely thank you for your trust and preference. Our goal is to continuously bring you some of the most beautiful, unique, and exceptional mineral specimens from around the world. Each piece is carefully selected for its quality and character, ensuring that every purchase meets the highest standards. Your satisfaction and confidence are our top priorities, and we will always strive to exceed your expectations with every order. With gratitude, GemPulse Minerals