A substantial set of two raw Lapis Lazuli specimens originating from the historic mines of Afghanistan. This lot offers a great comparison between high-grade blue lazurite and the natural rock matrix in which it forms. Specimen 1 (Deep Blue): A heavy, dense block of Lapis Lazuli with a high concentration of deep blue Lazurite. It shows beautiful, fine inclusions of golden Pyrite, often referred to as "stars in the night sky." Weight: 953 g Dimensions: 11 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm Specimen 2 (Patterned/Matrix): A large, decorative piece with a striking "marbled" appearance. It features intense blue pockets of Lazurite interwoven with reddish-brown and grey-white matrix (calcite/rock). The label identifies this as a contact metamorphic limestone (Kontaktmetamorpher Kalk), illustrating the geological formation of the mineral. Weight: 981 g Dimensions: 12.5 cm x 10 cm x 7 cm Both pieces are completely natural and unpolished, showing the raw, crystalline structure of the Sodalite group minerals. Mineral: Lazurite / Lapis Lazuli (Sodalite Group) Locality: Karimabad / Badakhshan, Afghanistan Total Weight: 1934 g Inclusions: Pyrite & Calcite Condition: Excellent raw condition. The pieces are sturdy and show vibrant colors. Included are the original collection labels from June 1999