**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 complex metamorphic terrains of northeastern Afghanistan, this rare purple scapolite crystal stands as a quiet but commanding expression of geological refinement. Unlike the more familiar pale or colourless members of the scapolite group, this specimen exhibits a distinctly uncommon purple tonality, a chromatic outcome linked to specific trace element chemistry and highly localised formation conditions. Such colour presence immediately places the crystal within the upper tier of scapolite rarity. The crystal is well formed and vertically elongated, with pronounced longitudinal striations that run uninterrupted along its body, both externally and through the interior. These natural growth lines create a subtle rhythmic structure, giving the crystal a sense of upward motion, as if frozen mid ascent. The termination, though naturally uneven, retains a coherent crystalline geometry that reinforces its unaltered character. In natural light, the colour unfolds as a soft yet confident spectrum of lavender violet, lilac purple and muted amethyst tones, with gentle internal zoning that adds depth without disrupting harmony. Certain internal planes appear slightly lighter, almost silvery in tone, while deeper zones concentrate richer purple hues, producing a layered visual effect rather than a flat colour field. This zoning is entirely natural and follows the crystal’s growth architecture. Rather than relying on brilliance or transparency alone, this scapolite asserts its presence through elegance, rarity and structural integrity. It is a crystal that invites close observation, rewarding the viewer with subtle colour transitions, fine growth textures and a distinctly mineralogical beauty that speaks of slow formation and exceptional conditions. Specifications: • Weight: 0.66 g • Weight in carats: 3.30 ct • Dimensions: 13 × 7 × 6 mm • Origin: Badakhshan region, Afghanistan • Mineral: Scapolite • Crystal system: Tetragonal • Crystal habit: Elongated natural crystal with well defined vertical growth • Colour: Rare purple violet with lilac and soft amethyst tonal variations • Colour distribution: Natural zoning with alternating lighter and deeper purple growth planes • Transparency: Translucent • Lustre: Vitreous to slightly silky on striated faces • Surface texture: Pronounced natural longitudinal striations and growth features • Condition: Natural, unpolished, untreated • Treatments: None Notable Points: • Rare purple colour expression within the scapolite group • Well formed elongated crystal with strong vertical symmetry • Clear and consistent natural growth striations • Subtle internal zoning enhancing depth and visual complexity • Natural termination preserving original crystal morphology • Untreated and unaltered specimen • Mineralogical rarity due to both colour and crystal quality • Elegant balance between structure, colour and form • Excellent representative of Afghan scapolite material • Strong collector appeal for uncommon colour variants Collector’s Interest: Purple scapolite remains one of the least commonly encountered colour varieties within the species, particularly in well defined natural crystals of this size and integrity. Afghan material is especially prized for its structural clarity and colour stability, yet specimens displaying true purple tones are seldom available on the market. This crystal offers collectors an opportunity to acquire a character driven specimen where rarity arises not from size or polish, but from genuine geological scarcity. Its combination of colour, form and natural preservation makes it particularly appealing to advanced mineral collectors seeking distinctive and less conventional additions. Lapidary Potential: While scapolite can be faceted, the defining value of this specimen lies in its natural crystal habit, surface textures and rare colour zoning. Any lapidary intervention would remove the vertical striations and growth features that give this piece its identity. Its highest and most authentic expression is preserved as a natural crystal specimen, appreciated for what it is rather than altered into something else. —————— Shipping and Handling: All orders are shipped by Portuguese National Post. • Dispatch time: within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation to Catawiki • Transit time with CTT service: between 5 to 7 business days within europe and worldwide, depending on destination national post. • A tracking number is always provided 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. 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