Lazurite ps. after Mica

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Perched aesthetically on white marble, and contrasting beautifully, is a starkly displayed royal blue-colored "lazurite crystal" measuring 2.5 cm in length. The crystal is complete all around and is definitely the WRONG shape for the species which leads one to questions! It is, in fact, one of the very rare examples of Lazurite replacing (pseudomorphing after) a previous crystal of Phlogopite mica. This is one of the sharpest, most pristine, most colorful, and simply dramatic examples we have seen. In the presentation, balance, and size of the specimen overall, this is one of the very finest examples of the replacement that we have seen. From the personal collection of Herb Obodda, who exported many of these Afghani pieces starting in the 1980s. This probably came out in the 1990s. It is a startling piece when seen in person. Large miniature or small, small cabinet size.