Rare, large and INTENSE purple-blue Sodalite crystals from Afghanistan! This is a very special and extraordinary specimen of a relatively common, igneous rock-forming mineral. This specimen consists of two, gorgeous, intergrown, glassy, gemmy to translucent, tanzanite-blue crystals that are at least 3cm in size... at least the well crystallized portion. The size is qualified because this may represent one or two very large crystals that form as a rim on an earlier formed core of Plagioclase Feldspar(?) and the Sodalite may constitute much of this piece! The two(?) crystals are very captivating because the crystal faces that are exposed are well-formed, large and mostly gem with fabulous color. Upon inspection with a loupe, the gemminess is very apparent and the crystals do display internal crazing. Use of long wave UV reveals the large crystals to fluoresce a subtle creamy orange; however, on the backside several areas fluoresce very bright orange. Incredible color and luster make this stand out.
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