A natural Afghanite specimen showing vivid blue colour and crisp contrast against its pale host. At 122 g, this cabinet-friendly piece offers excellent study value and display presence.
Why it’s interesting
Striking blue: saturated afghanite colour typical of feldspathoid marbles.
Fluorescence: many afghanite specimens fluoresce bright orange under shortwave UV (not guaranteed).
Collector appeal: classic association for teaching and side-by-side comparison with lazurite/sodalite-group minerals.
Details
Mineral: Afghanite (cancrinite–sodalite group)
Form: Natural specimen
Weight: approx. 122 g
Origin: Afghanistan (typical locality; exact mine not specified)
Listing: 1 × specimen (as pictured)
Mineralogical notes
Crystal system: trigonal/hexagonal group; commonly massive to granular.
Lustre: vitreous; streak: white.
Hardness: Mohs ~5.5–6; SG: ~2.5–2.6.
Associates: calcite, lazurite, pyrite and diopside in contact-metamorphosed limestones.
Suggested uses
Reference piece for feldspathoid identification and fluorescence demonstrations.
Excellent subject for macro/hand-lens photography.
Educational sample for carbonate-hosted blue minerals (afghanite vs. lazurite).
Care
Handle gently; avoid knocks that may chip edges.
Clean with a soft dry brush or cloth; avoid soaking, acids and ultrasonic cleaners.
Store separately from harder minerals to prevent scratching.
Note: Natural mineral specimens show inherent variations, contact points and minor imperfections—each piece is unique.
